Daphne odora 'Alba'

Compact evergreen shrub with deep green foliage and highly fragrant white flowers in late winter. Narrow, leathery leaves to 8 cm long. Waxy flowers in clusters of about 4 cm wide.

Prefers slightly-acid soil and a sheltered, partially shaded position with protection from hot afternoon sun. Copes with shade. The soil must be well-draining to prevent rootrot. You could raise the planting bed to improve drainage if necessary. No pruning required other than a light tip prune once a year.

Choose a position where you can enjoy the exquisite perfume, e.g. near the entrance to your house, next to paths, beneath the bathroom window, or grow in a container and move it when in flower to where you like. Great for woodland gardens.

Daphne odora is susceptible to non-treatable virus diseases that may cause yellowing, mottling and distortion of the leaves, so make sure to start with a healthy plant with deep green foliage. Avoid working the soil around the shrub as much as possible; daphnes don't like their roots disturbed.