Edgeworthia chrysantha aka Paperbush

Edgeworthia chrysantha is a deciduous shrub called paperbush or mitsumata. It belongs to the daphne family, Thymelaeaceae. Its native range runs from southern China to northern Myanmar. In China, it grows in forests and beside streams. RHS gives a garden size of 3–5 feet [1–1.5 metres] tall and wide. Oregon State notes that plants can exceed 5 feet [1.5 metres]. The shrub has a bushy shape and grows at a moderate rate.

Smooth, light brown bark covers its stems. The shoots bend with ease and branch in groups of three. This branch pattern remains clear when the plant has no leaves. The simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern on short stalks. They are narrow, with smooth edges and pointed tips. Most measure 3–5 inches long and up to 2 inches wide. Their upper sides are green, with gray-green tones below. Fine, silky white hairs cover the young leaves. The leaves turn yellow in fall before they drop.

Silvery flower buds form from late summer into fall. Flowers open on bare branches in winter and early spring. Missouri Botanical Garden lists bloom time as February through April. NC State reports that flowering can start in December. Each rounded cluster holds dozens of small, tube-shaped flowers. The clusters measure about 1½–2 inches across. Each flower has a silky calyx but no petals. Its outside is pale, while its center is yellow. The blooms have a scent and attract bees. Small, dry drupes follow, though the fruit draws little notice.

Grow paperbush in a sheltered spot with sun or partial shade. Some shade helps the leaves keep their best color. It prefers rich loam that stays moist but drains well. RHS lists acid, neutral, and alkaline soils as suitable. Water needs are moderate. RHS rates its UK hardiness as H4. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 7–10. Plants may take 10–20 years to reach full size. They need little pruning, and flowers form on older growth.

Paperbush suits woodland gardens, borders, containers, and single-specimen planting. Bare stems, buds, and scented flowers give it winter interest. Cut blooms can bring that scent indoors. People use its inner bark to make paper. NC State notes its use for Japanese banknotes. The cited garden sources report no major pest or disease problems.