As soon as we pass the winter solstice the sun begins to increase in strength; the gentle increase in temperature triggers the flowering of mid-winter shrubs.
Daphne blolua Jacqueline Posthill, originating from the Himalayas, is a stunning specimen. Grown for her abundance of fragrant pink-purple flowers presented on elegant arching stems it is an absolute delight. When planted along a path, or in our case beside the steps, wafts of fragrance seduce unsuspecting passers-by. This plant belongs to a group known as paper daphnes & it's common name is the Nepalese paper plant -harking back to times when paper & rope were made from the sinewy bark.
This beautiful specimen was introduced to us by a very talented plantswoman who has ensured that the plant has been able to get it's roots down deep into the soil. Providing we don't move her, Daphne should shower us with fragrance every February for a long time to come!
