From our perspective, light is life. We, Daphne odora 'Aureomarginata', crave bright, filtered light. Think of the dappled sunlight that would fall through the canopy of taller trees in our native woodland habitats. Direct, harsh afternoon sun will scorch our beautiful cream and gold-edged leaves, causing them to lose their vibrant variegation and turn a sad, crispy brown. However, deep shade is equally unwelcome; it makes us weak and leggy as we stretch desperately for photons, and we will likely refuse to produce our famed fragrance. An east-facing location, bathing us in gentle morning sun, is ideal.
This is our most critical requirement. We demand exceptionally well-draining soil. Our roots are notoriously susceptible to rot and will quickly perish in heavy, waterlogged clay. Plant us in a raised bed or on a slope if your native soil is poor. Amend the planting hole generously with grit, perlite, composted pine bark, and leaf mould to create a loose, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0), humus-rich environment that mimics the forest floor. Good drainage is the primary factor between our thriving and our demise.
Our roots prefer a consistent level of moisture but abhor sitting in water. Think of a well-wrung-out sponge. Water us deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, allowing the water to penetrate the root zone, and then let the soil approach dryness before watering again. This cycle is crucial. We appreciate higher ambient humidity, which can be achieved by mulching with organic matter like wood chips. This mulch also helps maintain that even soil moisture and keeps our sensitive roots cool, but ensure it is kept away from our main stem to prevent rot.
We are not heavy feeders. In fact, an overabundance of fertilizer, especially high-nitrogen formulas, can damage our roots and promote excessive, weak leafy growth at the expense of our signature winter blooms. A light application of a balanced, slow-release, organic fertilizer or a top dressing of compost in early spring, as we begin our new growth cycle, is more than sufficient to sustain us for the season. Our main desire is a healthy, living soil.
We naturally form a neat, rounded shrub and deeply resent heavy pruning. We do not readily sprout new growth from old wood. If you must shape us or remove a wayward branch, do so with the lightest touch and only immediately after our flowers fade in late winter or early spring. This allows us time to heal and set buds for the next cycle. Any drastic cutting back can shock us beyond recovery. Simply deadhead the spent flower clusters to keep us looking tidy.
