Daphne Thymelaeaceae
Some of these little shrubs are evergreen, some are not. Some of them grow very low. All of the several varieties bloom in early spring, often on bare wood. Colors vary from white to pink. Most varieties are fragrant.
CARE. Plant in a cool, moist location in light soil, drained and slightly sandy. Protect in winter with straw or salt hay.
PROPAGATION. Seeds are sown at once or are stratified; softwood cuttings after flowering; layering; hardwood cuttings in fall.
SPECIAL USES. Foundation planting, hedges, border planting, rock gardens, greenhouse forcing, ground cover, bonsai.
Deutzia Saxifragaceae
This is a heavy flowering shrub with a compact, plump shape. The flowers, resembling small hoop skirts or bells, cover the plant almost completely. Colors vary with varieties, white, pink, and pink with red touches.
CARE. Will grow and flower in some shade. Accepts most any soil. Needs drainage. Most varieties are hardy.
PROPAGATION. Both green-wood and hardwood cuttings, layers, seeds in spring.
SPECIAL USES. Foundation planting, hedges, greenhouse forcing.