Paperbush Edgeworthia chrysantha

Paperbush: A Field Guide

For centuries Japan has been using paperbush bark to make high-quality mitsumata paper—hence its name—while elsewhere the paperbush enjoys a reputation as more of a collectors’ plant.

The fragrant Edgeworthia chyrsantha offers high design in all four seasons. In late winter its slightly furry buds swell. In spring they burst forth on dark brown bare wood with typically creamy yellow blooms. Then come blue-green, almost tropical, leaves in summer. The paperbush is generally easy to grow. Try placing near your entryway to take advantage of its fragrance. For fun, seek out the ‘Ruby Splash’ red-flowered form.