As of Autumn 2020, the taxonomy and classification of Daphniphyllum is very confused and much in need of a comprehensive revision. The biggest problem is that the flowers, usually an important taxonomic character, are minuscule (in most cases less than 2 mm long), while the vegetative characters are all rather similar, but vary with population, habitat and situation - making them extremely uncooperative as subjects for study in the herbarium. Here we follow the treatment in Kew ‘Plants of the World’online database (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:15293-1)

Common Name:

General Information

Daphniphyllum pentandrum is an evergreen shrub or a small tree, usually growing around 4 - 15 metres tall[]. In dense forest the plant can be drawn up into a large tree,but in open positions is more likely to be a large,rounded shrub[].
The tree is harvested from the wild for its wood. It is sometimes grown as an ornamental, appreciated especially for the beauty of its foliage[],
Daphniphyllum pentandrum has a very wide distribution, large population, is not currently experiencing any major threats and no significant future threats have been identified. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2018)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

E. Asia - southern and central southern China, Vietnam, Cambodia

Habitat

Forests; at elevations from 100 - 1,400 metres[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Tree
Height	10.00 m
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Daphniphyllum pentandrum is native to the warm temperate region of China, extending southwards into the tropics of Vietnam and Cambodia.
Prefers a sheltered position in sun to semi-shade, with a well-drained, moist fertile soil. Moisture is particularly important in the growing season[].
A dioecious species, both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

The timber is used for construction and making furniture, as well as stationery[]. (Stationery is likely to refer to using the pulp to make paper[].)

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame[]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts.
Cuttings of moderately ripened wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel or at a junction with old wood, July in individual pots in a frame. The cuttings are slow to root, give them brisk bottom heat[]. Fair percentage[].
Layering of current seasons growth, 12cm long in mid summer to early autumn. Takes 12 - 18 months. High percentage[].