Striated Daphne
daphne striata
Also known as: ["Striated Spurge","Striped Daphne"]
Overview
A small, deciduous shrub native to the Balkan Peninsula, known for its fragrant flowers and toxic berries.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus: | Daphne |
| Botanical Name: | Daphne striata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning as needed to remove damaged or overgrown stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning which can reduce flowering.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or filtered sunlight daily, with protection from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun to avoid leaf scorch; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak summer hours; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, alkaline to neutral soil
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Avoid waterlogged soil; use a mix with good aeration; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering; softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer yield best results.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective removal of old or crossing branches; shape lightly to maintain form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage flowering; minimal pruning is best for this species.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased wood; avoid excessive cutting.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure drainage holes are clear; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf discoloration in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can damage roots; prolonged cold may lead to dieback or death.
Solution: Protect with mulch in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; stress may lead to pest susceptibility.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity around the plant; water deeply to cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots; follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxins in Daphne striata, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic toxicity. The compounds can lead to significant irritation and potential organ failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe toxic compounds in Daphne striata can cause severe gastrointestinal and systemic effects in dogs. Ingestion may lead to significant irritation and potential organ damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicDaphne striata contains toxic compounds, primarily daphnetoxin and mezerein, which can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with cellular processes, leading to significant irritation and potential systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Daphne striata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is highly toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Does Daphne striata require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, depending on climate.
Q: How often should Daphne striata be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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