Daphne (Laurel in Greek) is a minor figure in Greek mythology known as a naiad—a type of female nymph associated with bodies of freshwater.

Because of her beauty, Daphne attracted the attention of Apollo. Apollo pursued her and just before being overtaken, Daphne pleaded to Gaia and her father, the rivergod Ladon for help.

Ladon then transformed Daphne into a laurel tree.