Daphne

Description

A thin fiber obtained from the outer bark of the Nepal paper plant (Daphne bholua), a small shrub native to central Asia. Daphne fibers have been used to produce fine, strong paper since ancient times.

Synonyms and Related Terms

Nepal paper plant; Daphne bholua

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Fiber width = 6-12 microns with tapering ends.
• Regular, evenly spaced striations.
• Parenchchymal cells have an irregular shape with regularly spaced markings.

Resources and Citations

• T.Collings, D. Miller, 'The Identification of Oriental Paper Fibers' The Paper Conservator, vol 3, 1978.

• Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: Daphne" [Accessed January 6, 2003].