2011-11-02 11:44
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Scientific Name:
Daphne laureola
Evergreen shrub found in open woods on calcareous soils.
How to identify:
This shrub branches direct from the ground and grows up to 1 metre high. Has dark green, shiny, narrow leatherly oval leaves clustered at the top of each stem. The small bright, yellow-green, 4-lobed flowers are tubular and borne in clusters of 3-10 in the axils of the upper leaves. Develops green egg-shaped berries that turn black when ripe in late summer. Poisonous to humans but not to bird.
Where to find it:
Widespread but very local in England and Wales, particularly in beech woods.
How people can help:
The Wildlife Trusts manage habitats for the benefit of all kinds of wildlife. By volunteering for your local Trust you'll be able to get involved in directly managing different habitats as well as make new friends and learn new skills along the way.
Statistics:
Branches up to 1 metre high. Leaves 5--12 cm long.
Did you know?:
Despite its name the shrub is neither a spurge nor a laurel - it's one of two species of Daphne native to the UK (the other is Daphne Mezereum).
Seasons:
Winter
Image:
