Daphne mezereum, commonly known as Mezereon, is a deciduous shrub native to much of Europe and parts of Asia. It is renowned for its fragrant pink to purple flowers that bloom in early spring, often before the leaves appear, providing an early nectar source for pollinators such as bees. In agroecology, Mezereon serves as an important component of hedgerows and understory plantings, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. It plays a role in food forests as a shrub layer, offering habitat and food for wildlife. The plant's berries, while toxic to humans, are consumed by birds, aiding in seed dispersal. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine, though extreme caution is advised due to its toxicity.
Growing Details
Daphne mezereum thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It benefits from a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lavender and rosemary can enhance its growth by attracting beneficial insects. Avoid planting in areas frequented by children or pets due to its toxicity. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soils. Pruning should be minimal, focusing on removing dea
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Daphne mezereum</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to Europe and parts of Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of May for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(0/5)
edible uses:
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Daphne mezereum has been used traditionally in small doses for its medicinal properties, such as treating rheumatism and as a purgative. However, due to its high toxicity, it should only be used under professional guidance. The bark and berries contain compounds that can be dangerous if misused.
health concerns: All parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested, causing severe irritation to the digestive tract and skin. The berries are particularly dangerous and can be fatal if consumed.
other uses: The plant can be used as an ornamental shrub in gardens for its early spring flowers and fragrance. It is also valuable in wildlife gardens for attracting pollinators and providing bird habitat.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Daphne mezereum
common names: Mezereon; February Daphne; Spurge Laurel
family: Thymelaeaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Daphne
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 1.0 m
growing difficulty: High
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: Low
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(4/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Slow
max height: 1.5 m
max width: 1.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Daphne mezereum thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils and prefers full sun to partial shade. It benefits from a layer of organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as lavender and rosemary can enhance its growth by attracting beneficial insects. Avoid planting in areas frequented by children or pets due to its toxicity. Common mistakes include overwatering and planting in poorly drained soils. Pruning should be minimal, focusing on removing dea
Potential Disturbances: Daphne mezereum is generally pest-free but can occasionally be affected by aphids and scale insects. Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can help control aphid populations. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used for scale insects. Planting garlic or chives nearby can also deter pests.
Growth Timeline
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