Edgeworthia Chrysantha, commonly known as Paperbush, is a bushy, deciduous shrub, which reaches heights of six feet. The grey-brown stems, which are devoid of leaves in the winter, make it a prized shrub for the winter season due to the clusters of gradual white and yellow-toned tiny flowers, blooming for up to six weeks, which give the shrub a beautiful fragrance. In Japan, it is commonly used to make high-quality paper, hence its name. It looks its best when planted with a few shade-tolerant evergreens in order to provide variety and contrast.
Family
Paperbush belongs to the plant family Thymelaeaceae, belonging to the order Malvales. It is a distant relative of the Edgeworthia gardneri, which is commonly referred to as the Himalayan Paperbush. The two plants are somewhat similar in appearance, although the Edgeworthia Chrysantha is native to Eastern Asia, while the Edgeworthia Gardneri is native to the Himalayas. Additionally, the Edgeworthia Chrysantha’s flowers are less fragrant than its relative, the Edgeworthia Gardneri.
Plant Type
Edgeworthia Chrysantha is a shrub. It is a perennial, meaning that it will last for multiple growing seasons. It is also dioecious, meaning that plants are either male or female, with different flowers growing on each.
Mature Size
Paperbush is a bush, reaching heights of six feet and a width of three feet when fully matured. Its gray to brown stems, reaching in height variable depending on sun exposure, are hidden with lush, pale green foliage during the summer when it reaches its maximum height.
Sun Exposure
Paperbush can be planted both indoors and outdoors, although its preference is for partial shade to full shade, especially in warmer climates. If placed in full sun, the shrub will require more regular watering than if it were planted in the shade.
Soil Type
Paperbush is relatively undemanding when it comes to soil type and prefers well-drained soils that have been amended with soil amendments or organic matter such as bark mulch or peat moss. The soil should also be slightly acidic or neutral, with a pH of 5.6 to 7.0.
Soil pH
Paperbush prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.6 to 7.0. However, as mentioned above, amended soils are acceptable and beneficial for the plant.
Bloom Time
Paperbush blooms from late winter to spring, usually from mid-February until the end of April. The white to yellow-toned, fragrant flowers cover the shrub for up to six weeks, providing a beautiful burst of color.
Flower Color
Paperbush has white to yellow-toned flowers. The flowers are tiny and clustered, giving the shrub a unique look when in full bloom.
Hardiness Zones
Paperbush is hardy in the USDA Hardiness Zones 7-9. It is not recommended for areas with extreme temperatures, as it can struggle to survive in temperatures below -17°C.
Native Area
Paperbush is native to Southeastern China, Honshu (Japan), and Korea. It has been cultivated and grown in many other countries in temperate climates.
Meaning and Symbolism
Paperbush is associated with a wide range of meanings and symbols. In the traditional language of flowers, Paperbush symbolizes patience and solitude, while its namesake paper made from the fibrous inner bark can represent wisdom, and longevity.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
Paperbush has been cultivated and used for centuries throughout its native area and beyond. In Asian countries, the fibrous inner bark of the plant has been used to make high-quality paper for books, paintings, and for various religious scriptures. The Buddhist sutras were written using Paperbush paper and in Japan, traditional washi paper was made from the Paperbush fibers.
Throughout its native area, Paperbush has been steeped in mythology and folklore. In some areas, it was believed that the Paperbush could communicate with the spiritual world, while in other regions, it was used as a symbol of peace and tranquility. In some cultures, the plant was even believed to be a protector against malevolent spirits.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
Paperbush is available in several cultivars, each with its own unique traits and characteristics. ‘J.C. van Tol’ is a cultivar with a weeping habit and pale yellow flowers, which emerge earlier in the season compared to other varieties. ‘Lemon Light’ is another cultivar, with larger and more fragrant white flowers. Finally, ‘Winter King’ is a more compact form with more numerous flowers and deep green foliage.
How to Plant
Paperbush is easy to grow and can thrive in most garden situations. When planting, choose a position in the garden that is in partial shade or full shade. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the rootball and mix in organic matter such as peat moss, bark mulch, or compost. Place the plant in the hole and fill with soil, firming down lightly with your hands. Water thoroughly to ensure the plant is well-watered and mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and protect the root system from the heat.
How to Pot and Repot
Paperbush can be grown in containers both inside and outside. When it comes to pots and containers, it is recommended to use a large pot that is well-draining and made from materials that do not conduct heat. When repotting, try to choose a slightly larger container, with more space for the root system to grow. If the soil has become water-logged or compacted, it is best to repot the plant into a new container with new soil. Make sure to water well afterwards.
How to Prune
Paperbush can be pruned back lightly in spring and again in autumn, if necessary. This is best done with sharp shears, cutting back to the desired shape. It is best to prune the shrub sparingly and only when necessary, as it can become bare and unattractive if over-pruned. If a thick, bushy shape is desired, lightly cut back the stems during spring and summer to promote bushiness.
How to Propagate
Paperbush can be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings in spring or autumn and cut below a node near the base of the plant. Plant the cuttings into a well-drained mixture of perlite and coarse sand, and water in lightly. Place in partial shade in a humid place and keep the soil moist. After several weeks, roots will begin to form and the cutting can be potted up and grown as a new plant. Paperbush can also be grown from seed, but it is slow and the plants will take some time to produce flowers.
Common Pests and Diseases
Paperbush is generally pest and disease free and can be grown without many issues. However, it is susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the foliage. To prevent and control powdery mildew, water the roots of the plant instead of the foliage, as wet foliage is more susceptible to infections, and ensure there is good air circulation around the plant. Additionally, use fungicides and neem oil to treat any affected areas if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Edgeworthia Chrysantha
1. What is the etymology of Edgeworthia Chrysantha?
Answer: The genus name Edgeworthia is often attributed to the British geologist Michael Edgeworth, while the species name Chrysantha is taken from the Greek words Chryse, meaning “gold” and anthe, meaning “flower”. This is due to the yellow tones that the flowers take on as they mature.
2. How do you care for Paperbush in cold weather?
Answer: Paperbush can tolerate cold temperatures, but it is best to plant it in partial shade or full shade in cooler climates. The plant thrives in moist and well-draining soils, so it is important to remember to water regularly during the summer and provide protection during the winter months. Additionally, mulching around the base can help prevent freezing during winter and provide insulation for the roots.
3. Are there any particular pests or diseases that affect Paperbush?
Answer: Paperbush is generally pest and disease free and can be grown without many issues. However, it is susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the foliage. To prevent and control powdery mildew, water the roots of the plant instead of the foliage, as wet foliage is more susceptible to infections, and ensure there is good air circulation around the plant. Additionally, use fungicides and neem oil to treat any affected areas if necessary.
Table Fact Sheet
| Paperbush | Edgeworthia chrysantha |
|---|---|
| Family | Thymelaeaceae |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 6 ft tall, 3 ft wide |
| Sun Exposure | Partial shade to full shade |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, amended soil |
| Soil pH | 5.6-7.0 |
| Bloom Time | Late winter to spring |
| Flower Color | White to yellow-toned |
| Hardiness Zones | 7-9 |
| Native Area | Southeastern China, Honshu (Japan), Korea |
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