Also known as Paperbush · 13 gardener saves
Edgeworthia: the varieties gardeners actually grow
Edgeworthia, the genus most gardeners know as paperbush. We track 3 varieties; these are the ones gardeners actually save and plant, ranked by real saves rather than catalog marketing. Each links to full care, bloom, and live price data.
The 3 most-saved Edgeworthia varieties
Of 3 in the catalog — ordered by how many gardeners actually grow them.
#1 most savedPaperbush
Edgeworthia papyrifera 'Eco Yaku'
#2 most savedSnow Cream Edgeworthia Snow Cream Paperbush
Edgeworthia chrysantha 'Snow Cream'
#3 most savedOriental Paperbush
Edgeworthia papyrifera 'Akebono'
How to grow Edgeworthia
What the Edgeworthia varieties in our catalog actually agree on — drawn from the care records of the 3 most-grown of them, not from a generic template.
The Edgeworthia year
- PruneApril100% of varieties
Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain shape; avoid heavy cuts.
- FertilizeMarch100% of varieties
Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- PlantMarch, September and October67% of varieties
Plant in early spring or fall; avoid disturbing the root ball.
- Spring CleanupFebruary67% of varieties
Remove any dead or damaged wood before new growth begins.
Do
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape ✂️
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds 🌱
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter ❌
- Never plant in poorly drained soil ❌
- Do not fertilize late in the season
What goes wrong with Edgeworthia
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Distorted or yellowing leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil |
| Scale insects | Bumpy, waxy coverings on stems | Apply horticultural oil during dormant season |
| Root rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves, mushy roots | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Edgeworthia
Cuttings
- Take semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer.
- Dip in rooting hormone and plant in moist soil.
- Keep soil moist; roots develop in 6 weeks.
Division
- Divide mature shrubs in early spring or fall.
- Carefully separate root balls and replant immediately.
Edgeworthia questions
How many types of Edgeworthia are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 3 distinct Edgeworthia varieties. The most popular — ranked by 13 real gardener saves — are shown first above.
What zones does Edgeworthia grow in?
Across its varieties, Edgeworthia covers USDA Zones 6–9. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Edgeworthia bloom?
Most Edgeworthia varieties bloom in early spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Edgeworthia should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.
Keep exploring
Edgeworthia shows up in
By hardiness zone
Design with Edgeworthia in your own yard
Snap a photo of your space and see these varieties planted in it — sized correctly, matched to your zone, with care reminders included.
