Daphne pseudomezereum

Daphne pseudomezereum is a small shrub in the daphne family, Thymelaeaceae. Its common names include Onishibari and Natsubouz. It comes from northeast China, Korea, and central and southern Japan. It grows in forests and mountain areas. In gardens, it reaches 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 metres) tall and wide. It has an upright form and a moderate growth rate.

This shrub sheds its leaves in summer rather than winter. New leaves grow in fall and stay through winter. This cycle leaves bare branches during the summer months. The smooth, dull green leaves cluster near the branch tips. Each simple leaf has smooth edges and a narrow base. The leaves sit alternately along the stems. Their tips may be rounded or have a short point. Straight, brown stems have smooth surfaces without hairs. The gray-brown bark is tough and holds strong fibres.

Flowers open from late winter into early spring, often March through April. Small clusters grow on short stalks near the branch tips. Each bloom forms a yellow or greenish-yellow tube with four lobes. The flowers draw pollinators and add colour before many shrubs bloom. Red, oval drupes follow the flowers and ripen in spring. These fruits measure about 0.03 feet (0.008 metres) long. The bark supplies fibre for paper made in Japan.

Grow this shrub in full sun or partial shade. It needs moist soil that drains well and contains organic matter. Acid to neutral soil suits it; avoid clay and alkaline ground. Mulch helps keep moisture in the soil, most of all in sun. It does not cope well with drought or strong summer heat. NC State lists zones 6–8 as its best range. Its text also reports a broader hardiness range of zones 5–9. Use it in borders, beside foundations, or under deciduous woodland trees. Allow for its bare summer form when planning nearby plants. Avoid disturbing its roots, and plant it in its lasting site early.

Too much water can cause root rot. Scale insects and viral diseases can also affect this shrub. All parts are poisonous, and it has no known food uses. Eating it can cause severe illness and may be fatal. Its sap can also cause severe skin irritation. Wear gloves when handling it, and keep children and pets from eating it. Plants For A Future lists no known medicinal use.