Daphne odora is native to China and Japan, and is hardy from USDA Zones 7 to 9. It forms a tight-mounding evergreen shrub that typically grows up to 4 feet with a wider spread, but it can reach heights of 8 to 10 feet. The glossy leaves make winter daphne attractive year-round; variegated cultivars such as 'Aureomarginata' and 'Variegata' are even more attractive. Winter daphne is spectacular from February to March, when it blooms. The white trumpet-shaped flowers with purple exteriors appear in clusters at the ends of the branches and produce an intoxicating scent that permeates the surroundings. Despite these outstanding attributes, winter daphne is considered a persnickety plant with questionable longevity in the landscape. It dislikes transplanting, so select a permanent spot in the garden. This should be a well-drained location with protection from the hot afternoon sun. Keep the roots cool with a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch or a low-growing ground cover.

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