This captivating shrub offers a sensory feast with its strong, vintage perfume-like fragrance and stunning floral display. Growing beyond 2m (6ft) tall at maturity under ideal conditions, it features stiff, sparsely branching stems adorned with narrow, glossy dark green leaves up to 10cm (4in) long. From midwinter to early spring, deep purple-pink buds open into relatively large, ombre-shaded flowers, transitioning from pale centres to deep pink edges, and the plant's evergreen or semi-evergreen nature (depending on UK location) ensures year-round interest. Ideal for gardeners seeking winter colour and fragrance, ‘Mary Rose’ combines romantic appeal with desirable attributes, its larger size and intoxicating scent making it a standout choice for sensory gardens, winter borders, or as a fragrant focal point near paths and entryways.
How to care for Daphne bholua Mary Rose:
Daphnes do best, and prefer to be in the ground (rather than in containers), where they enjoy a deeper, cooler root run. Best in well-drained but moisture-retentive soil that contains plenty of organic matter, they won’t tolerate drought or waterlogging. Avoid excessive root disturbance during planting and keep pruning to a minimum since the plant is susceptible to die-back. Where necessary after flowering, lightly trim to remove misplaced branches in order to maintain a compact habit. Shelter from cold, drying winds. Cold hardiness can be improved by insulating the roots and soil surface with a thick (2in) layer of mulch and protecting foliage from severe or prolonged frost with a covering of horticultural fleece.