Edgeworthia gardneri aka Nepalese Paperbush

Edgeworthia gardneri belongs to the Thymelaeaceae family. Its common names include Nepalese paper bush and Indian paper tree. Its native range spans the central Himalayas to northwestern Yunnan in China. It also reaches northern Indo-China. Records include Nepal, Bhutan, India, northern Myanmar, and parts of China. It grows in forests and scrub at elevations up to 9,840 feet [3,000 metres].

This evergreen shrub reaches about 6.6 feet [2 metres] in cultivation. Kew also records its growth form as a shrub or tree. It keeps its leaves throughout the year. Its stems bend with ease, even enough to form knots. The bark provides fibres for paper and string. Himalayan growers cultivate the plant for papermaking. Its bark yields fine paper and has a valued place in handmade paper production.

Flowers appear from February to April, bringing interest in late winter and spring. PFAF lists the plant among those grown for scent. Each flower has both male and female organs. Insects carry out pollination. Frost can damage the flowers, so a sheltered site matters. Woodland edges and sites with dappled shade suit its garden use. It can also grow in full sun or light woodland.

The plant accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline ground. Good drainage is important, along with ample moisture during growth. PFAF lists USDA zones 7–10, but gives a qualified account of cold tolerance. It reports dependable survival near 23°F [−5°C]. A sheltered plant in well-drained soil may withstand 5°F [−15°C]. A south- or west-facing wall can help protect the flowers. Roots dislike disturbance, so plant it in its lasting position early.

Fresh seed is best sown in a cold frame. Germination may occur the next spring or take another year. Stored seed needs warm treatment followed by cold treatment. Even then, seedlings may take a year or more to emerge. Young plants need at least a year under glass before planting out. Spring cuttings offer another means of propagation. PFAF records no known food or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards, but this does not prove safety for people or pets. The same source does not flag the plant as weedy.