Daphne papyracea

Daphne papyracea, the Indian paper tree, belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. This shrub comes from northeastern Pakistan through southern China and Myanmar. It grows in forests and shaded woodland sites. Nepalese records place it at 4,920–10,500 feet [1,500–3,200 metres]. Despite its common name, it stays shrub-sized in gardens.

Plants reach about 3.3–4.9 feet [1–1.5 metres] tall and wide. They take about five to ten years to mature. The bushy crown keeps all or some leaves through winter. Its dark green leaves range from oval to lance-shaped. They have a thin, leathery feel. White flower clusters open at stem tips in winter and early spring. Some flowers have a pink tint. Oval red fruits follow the flowers.

Choose a sheltered site in sun or partial shade. Woodland edges and sites with dappled shade also suit it. Give it deep, rich soil that stays moist but drains well. It accepts clay, loam, sand and chalk. It tolerates acid and alkaline soils, though neutral soil is preferred. Neither drought nor waterlogged ground suits this plant. Mulch helps keep its roots cool. Choose its site with care, since it dislikes being moved. Keep pruning to a minimum. RHS rates it H4, while PFAF lists USDA zones 7–10.

This shrub suits flower beds, borders and small courtyard gardens. It also fits cottage gardens and informal planting schemes. Its winter flowers add interest when many plants lack blooms. The inner bark supplies fibre for handmade paper in Nepal. Growers can take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Winter grafting offers another way to raise plants. Aphids may attack it. Other risks include Phytophthora root rot, fungal leaf spots and viral disease. Honey fungus can occur, but RHS describes it as rare.

No edible uses are recorded, and all parts are poisonous. RHS warns that eating it harms people and pets. Sap can also cause a skin rash in some people. Wear gloves and other protection when handling the plant. PFAF records traditional uses for fever and as a purgative. Its account does not identify which plant part was used. These records do not establish safe home use.