Broussonetia papyrifera (Paper Mulberry)


Botanical Information

FamilyMoraceae
GenusBroussonetia
Speciespapyrifera
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (deciduous), Shrub (deciduous)
OriginChina and Japan.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer
The bark has been used to make paper, and the inner bark to make barkcloth.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone6 - 9
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone5b - 8a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH3 - H7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-23 - (-1)
Temperature (°F)-10 - (-30)
Height12 - 16 m
Spread10 - 14 m
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodApril, May

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA fast-growing dioecious tree.
ShapeBroad rounded crown.
LandscapeUsed as a shade tree or street tree in some areas, but females may become invasive.
PropagationPropagate by seed.
CultivationGrow in full sun in a rich, moist, well-drained soil. Will tolerate a wide variety of soil types, as well as a wide range of moisture conditions and pollution.
PestsCanker, leaf spot and root rot may cause problems.
Notable SpecimensWestonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, England.
Bark/Stem DescriptionThe bark is grey, becoming furrowed and changing colour slightly to grey-brown as the tree matures.
Leaf DescriptionLeaves are up to 20 cm long, dull green in colour, with a variable shape, turning a pleasing yellow-green in autumn.
Flower DescriptionFlower are pale green, with males appearing in catkins 7.5 cm and females appearing in rounded flower heads.
Fruit DescriptionFruit only appears on female trees, are reddish-purple to orange in colour and aggregate in balls. The fruit is a favourite of wildlife.

Photographs