Maejima Variegated Winter Daphne

Maejima is a variegated selection of winter daphne, with glossy green leaves edged in broad golden-yellow or cream tones and fragrant purplish-pink flowers in late winter or early spring. The Royal Horticultural Society describes a rounded evergreen shrub 1–1.5 m tall and wide; Oregon State University calls Mae-jima a semi-dwarf selection, about 3 ft in height and spread after ten years ([RHS](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/219927/daphne-odora-mae-jima-v/details); [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/daphne-odora-mae-jima)). These are approximate garden sizes and can vary with growing conditions. The plant grows in full sun or partial shade, with shelter and soil that remains moist yet drains freely. Its fragrant early-season flowers and patterned foliage give it interest outside the flowering period. Use it where its mature spread has room and where the scented bloom can be appreciated, while avoiding exposed sites that intensify winter stress. ## Maintenance Provide well-drained soil enriched with organic matter, water while the shrub establishes and during dry spells, and mulch to keep roots cool. Avoid waterlogged soil, hard pruning, and unnecessary transplanting.