Also known as February Daphne · Spurge Laurel · Wood Laurel
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Spurge-laurel (Daphne laureola) is an evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and fragrant, greenish-yellow flowers in late winter. It is toxic.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial shade to full shade.
25% intensity
Tolerates deep shade but may flower less. Avoid intense direct sun.
Moderate watering, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
50% intensity
Reduce in winter. Essential for healthy root system.
Well-drained, humus-rich, chalky
50% intensity
Hardy in temperate climates.
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Feed sparingly in spring.
25% intensity
Balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and can cause skin irritation.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry periods, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent waterlogged roots.
Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, which this plant is susceptible to.
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning as it can stimulate vigorous, leggy growth. Light trimming helps encourage a more compact and attractive form.
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings taken in summer or by seed sown in autumn. Seed propagation can be slow and may require stratification. Cuttings generally offer a more reliable method for producing new plants.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring as needed. Mature plants are best left undisturbed as they dislike root disturbance. Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Spurge-Laurel (Daphne laureola)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus | Daphne |
| Species | Daphne laureola |
Similar in genus Daphne
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
