Daphne is a prominent figure in Greek mythology, appearing in various accounts as either a mortal woman or a nymph, and consistently identified as the daughter of a river god. Her story is primarily defined by her encounter with the god Apollo, who pursued her with romantic intent against her will.
In a desperate attempt to escape the god's advances, Daphne prayed for intervention. Her plea was answered through a miraculous transformation into a laurel tree. Following this event, the laurel became a plant of special reverence for Apollo, often associated with his iconography and the honors he bestowed.