Edgeworthia chrysantha Grandiflora

Edgeworthia chrysantha 'Grandiflora' is a variety of paper bush with larger and more abundant winter inflorescences than the species. This deciduous shrub develops a beautiful bushy structure and then spreads with short, thick, and regular branches, highlighted by a smooth, reddish-brown bark that becomes light grey-brown with age. It flowers early, on the tips of bare branches in a multitude of bright yellow tubular flowers with silky white undersides, gathered in loose, clusters, very bright and exhaling a powerful fragrance where notes of jasmine and honeysuckle blend. Moderately hardy, its cultivation is somewhat delicate, preferring mild and humid climates, bright exposures without scorching sun, and neutral to acidic, rich, well-drained, and moist soil.

Edgeworthia chrysantha (synonym E. tomentosa) is a close relative of Daphnes, belonging to the Thymelaeaceae family. It is the only species known for its ornamental qualities, and for its use in the production of luxury paper. This shrub is native to central China, where it is found in forests, on riverbanks, or on bushy slopes at altitudes between 300 and 1600 m (984 ft 4 in and 5249 ft 4 in). This plant has become naturalized in Japan and on the south coast of Korea due to intensive cultivation. The plant has a lifespan of about 30 to 60 years.

The 'Grandiflora' cultivar is a rare commercial selection, presenting larger, more numerous flowers, with a brighter yellow colour and a more intense fragrance than the species. This slow-growing shrub with a bushy habit, will reach about 1.50 m (4 ft 11 in) in all directions. Its very short trunk disappears as peripheral branches emerge. The thick, flexible, reddish-brown branches, branch very regularly and characteristically into three secondary branches. Flowering takes place from February to March, lasting about a month, at the tips of bare branches. The flower buds, protected by pretty silver bracts, are carried by a curved peduncle that straightens up when the buds unfold into pale green round umbels that open from the centre to the periphery. The small flowers, numbering 30 to 50, measure about 5 mm (0.2 in). Each one is composed of a silky white tube widening into 4 bright yellow lobes, fading to white, giving the inflorescence a two-tone appearance. These flowers are very nectar-rich and exhale a heady scent in calm weather, attracting bumblebees or early bees. The fragrance resembles that of cloves, jasmine, or honeysuckle. The flowering is followed by the formation of inedible fruits with a stone.

The deciduous foliage has an exotic appearance, more abundant and larger than in the species, and appears mainly at the ends of the branches after flowering. It consists of large alternate, lanceolate leaves, reaching up to 20 cm (7.9 in) in length. The strongly veined leaf is shiny, green-blue on the upper side, lighter and silky on the underside. In hot weather, the leaves tend to wilt and fall prematurely.

Edgeworthia 'Grandiflora' is a collector's shrub, to be highlighted and planted not far from a pathway or entrance to enjoy its fragrance. If it is not more widely planted in our gardens, it is due to its fairly low hardiness, around -12°C in a sheltered position and well-drained soil, the sensitivity of its flowering to dry and icy winds, and its aversion to heat. Like rhododendrons, it does not tolerate the presence of limestone and requires soil that remains moist but well-drained. It will naturally find a place alongside other acid-loving shrubs such as Camellias, Pieris, Kalmia, and tree heathers.

Also known as Mistumata or paper tree, the Edgeworthia chrysantha is used in Japan to make high-quality paper from its branches: washi. The resulting paste gives the paper a unique texture and makes it resistant to the effects of time, humidity, and insects.