Kuromoji (Lindera umbellata) has a refreshing fragrance in its branches and bark, making it popular as a natural material. Winter, when the leaves have fallen and the fragrance concentrates in the branches, is the best season for making kuromoji toothpicks. Here are freshly harvested kuromoji branches. [Contents] Approximately 25 cm in length, 7 branches with a diameter of 2-2.5 cm each. Due to the natural material, there may be variations in thickness and length. We hope you enjoy the fragrance and texture. Harvested in: Miyagi Prefecture Harvest Date: December 25, 2025 [How to Use Kuromoji Branches (approx. 2 cm diameter)] <Woodcraft Materials> The diameter of around 2 cm is a perfect size for handmade items such as pen shafts, chopsticks, and spoons. When shaved, it gives off a refreshing fragrance, and the wood grain has a bright color tone for a beautiful finish. <Aroma Sticks/Essential Oil Extraction> Kuromoji is attracting attention as a "Japanese aroma," and the branches can be cut and used as **aroma sticks (fragrant wood)**. You can enjoy a subtle fragrance just by placing them indoors. It is also possible to extract kuromoji essential oil from the branches. <Bath Sticks> Cut branches with a diameter of around 2 cm to about 10 cm and float them in the bath to release the natural fragrance into the water. <Boiling Material for Health Tea> Since the fragrance is stronger than that of small twigs, it is also popular as a kuromoji tea material for boiling. <Tea Utensils/Toothpick Material> Thin branches are used for "kuromoji toothpicks" for Japanese sweets, but branches with a diameter of around 2 cm are suitable for carving out the base material for toothpicks. <Reinforcement Material for Bamboo Crafts/Basketry> Due to their thickness, they can be used for basket frames and small handles. They have flexibility and fragrance, and they add an accent to Japanese-style crafts. *Kuromoji branches with a diameter of around 2 cm are valuable materials that can be used in three ways: "shaving," "boiling," and "enjoying the fragrance." [Estimated Storage Period for the Fragrance of Kuromoji Branches] 1. Natural Drying/Room Temperature Storage: Branches that have been naturally dried indoors in a well-ventilated area can be enjoyed for about half a year to a year. The fragrance gradually evaporates over time, but a new fragrance emerges when shaved. 2. Sealed Storage (Plastic Bags/Bottles): Storing the branches in a sealed container or zip-lock bag can preserve the fragrance for 1-2 years. It is best to avoid high temperatures and humidity and store them in a cool, dark place. *Kuromoji seedlings are also available for sale (^_-)-☆ Fragrance...Other