Source: Wikimedia Commons
Japanese Wintersweet
IntermediateChimonanthus praecox
Flowering bonsai with translucent waxy yellow blooms in midwinter. Sweet fragrance drifts through winter gardens. Precious species blooming when few others do. Improves with age.
Overview
Chimonanthus praecox, commonly known as wintersweet or Japanese wintersweet (Roubai in Japanese), is a deciduous shrub native to China, introduced to Japan in the early Edo period. It is remarkable for blooming in the depths of winter (December to February), when its translucent, waxy, pale yellow flowers open on bare branches and fill the air with an intensely sweet fragrance. The cultivar 'Grandiflorus' (Soshin-roubai) has pure yellow flowers throughout and is particularly prized in bonsai. Wintersweet is one of the 'Three Fragrant Shrubs of Winter' in East Asian garden tradition and represents a rare opportunity to enjoy bonsai display during the coldest months.
Lifespan of the Japanese Wintersweet
The Japanese Wintersweet lives 100+ years.
Size of the Japanese Wintersweet
The Japanese Wintersweet grows to 15-50cm (bonsai size).
Basic Info
Origin
China (introduced to Japan in the early Edo period)
Lifespan
100+ years
Size
15-50cm (bonsai size)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Growing Tips
Placement
Outdoor sun. Enjoy winter flowering
Watering
Heavy drinker. Keep moist even during winter bloom
Styling
Prune after bloom. Cut back overgrown branches
Notes
Late leaf drop. Let leaves fall naturally
Japanese Wintersweet FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Japanese Wintersweet?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the lifespan of Japanese Wintersweet?
The average lifespan of Japanese Wintersweet is 100+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Japanese Wintersweet get?
The mature size of Japanese Wintersweet is 15-50cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Japanese Wintersweet?
The price of Japanese Wintersweet varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 7–9
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Chimonanthus praecox (L.) Link
Synonyms: Calycanthus suaveolens Salisb., Calycanthus praecox L., Chimonanthus caespitosus T.B.Chao, Z.X.Chen & Z.Q.Li, Chimonanthus verus Biel., Chimonanthus yunnanensis W.W.Sm., Meratia fragrans Loisel.
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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