February daphne

Daphne mezereum

Small deciduous shrub with intensely fragrant rose-pink flowers wreathing the bare upright stems in late winter. The species epithet (mezereum) and common name both reference its February flowering.

Hardiness ratings

February daphne hardiness across the four zone systems
SystemRatingTemperature rangeHow to read it
USDA hardiness zone Zone 4–7 −34.4 °C to −12.2 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
RHS hardiness rating H7 down to −20 °C Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance
Canadian plant hardiness zone Zone 4–7 −29 °C to −7 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone
Australian (ANBG) zone Zone 1–3 −15 °C to 0 °C Plant tolerates down to this zone

Growing notes

  • Flowers February–March — among the most reliable late-winter fragrance plants in cold climates
  • WARNING: All parts are highly toxic — berries, bark and sap can cause severe internal and skin irritation, do not site near children or in handling positions
  • Short-lived (often 10–15 years) and resents transplanting — site permanently from the start
  • Needs winter chilling

Pet caution: February daphne is listed as potentially harmful to cats and/or dogs. Keep pets from grazing on it, and contact a vet if you suspect your animal has eaten some.

Categories

Related plants

Cross-check February daphne against your zones

Reference

February daphne on Wikipedia