A flowering tree endemic to China, wintersweet first came to Japan in the early Edo period (1603-1868.) The tree itself is not so notable outside of flowering periods, but in early spring, it shows its true colors. Wintersweet flowers are a delicate yellow, seeming almost to have been carved from beeswax, with an almost transparent dull lustre. It also blooms a bit earlier than other, more showy trees, so wintersweet's delicate fragrance perfumes many winter flower arrangements and is very popular in winter gardens.