Daphne sudden death

Question

We have a Daphne which is about 8 feet across and over 18 years old. It typically grows about 6-8 inches wider each year. It blooms every spring like clock work – except this year. It just seems to have died. The branches have no sign of life and should be in full bloom now – or very soon (normally). Instead, they are brittle, have some moss beginning to grow on them and snap off easily. We haven’t changed their environment at all. Someone said maybe it just died of old age but that seems untypical of most things in the plant world. Any ideas?

Answer 1

My research show that an average lifespan of this shrub is 10 – 12 years.
That said, there are lots of examples of a Daphne growing and blooming for far longer times.
Branches that snap have died. Scratch the bark, if there is green there is still some signs of life in the shrub.
Root rot is one of the most common reasons for loss of a Daphne.
Here are some links to refresh you on the care requirements.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/winter-daphne/care-for-winter-daphne.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/winter-daphne/pruning-winter-daphne.htm