Daphne 'Perfume Princess' – Winter Daphne

Daphne 'Perfume Princess' (Daphne odora × bholua)

2 litre pot (17 cm pot)

Plant Highlights: Intensely fragrant winter flowers • Evergreen to semi-evergreen foliage • Flowers from winter into early spring • Ideal near entrances and paths • Compact specimen shrub

Overview

Daphne 'Perfume Princess' is a compact evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub renowned for its exceptionally fragrant flowers, which appear from winter into early spring when colour and scent are especially welcome in the garden. Clusters of deep pink buds open to pale pink and white flowers, releasing an intense sweet fragrance that can perfume the surrounding area on mild winter days.

Its naturally compact, upright habit makes it an excellent choice for smaller gardens, sheltered borders and large patio containers. Planted near a doorway, pathway or seating area, it provides an unforgettable winter display while its evergreen foliage adds attractive year-round structure.

Why We Love It

• One of the most intensely fragrant shrubs for the winter garden.
• Flowers when few other shrubs are in bloom.
• Compact habit is well suited to smaller gardens and containers.
• Evergreen foliage provides structure throughout the year.
• Creates a welcoming display when planted near entrances and frequently used garden spaces.

Plant Details

Growing Guide

Position

Plant in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position, protected from cold, drying winds. Morning sun or lightly filtered light suits it well in many Irish gardens.

Watering

Keep the soil evenly moist while the plant establishes. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells, especially when grown in containers. Avoid allowing the soil to become either completely dry or permanently waterlogged.

Soil

Grow in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. Good drainage is essential, particularly during winter, as Daphne dislikes sitting in wet ground.

Hardiness and Winter Care

Hardy in most Irish gardens when grown in a sheltered position with free-draining soil. Container-grown plants may benefit from some protection during prolonged periods of severe frost.

Routine Care

Daphne requires very little pruning. Remove only dead or damaged stems after flowering if necessary and avoid hard pruning or unnecessary root disturbance, as established plants can be slow to recover.

Perfect For

• Entranceways and front gardens
• Paths and seating areas where the fragrance can be appreciated
• Sheltered mixed borders
• Woodland-style gardens
• Large patio containers

Good to Know

All parts of Daphne are toxic if ingested, and the sap may cause skin irritation. Wear gloves when pruning or handling the plant and position it appropriately where children and pets are unlikely to consume any part of it. The 2 litre (17 cm) pot refers to the nursery container size at the time of sale and not the mature size of the shrub.

Product Information

• Supplied in a 2 litre (17 cm) nursery pot
• Evergreen to semi-evergreen shrub
• Intensely fragrant winter flowers
• Suitable for borders and large containers
• Best grown in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil
• Plant in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position