SafePlants

Broussonetia kazinoki: An Overview

Broussonetia kazinoki, also known as paper mulberry, is a deciduous tree or shrub belonging to the Moraceae (mulberry) family.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• The plant produces small, bright-orange berries in the summer that are described as sweet and juicy.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Broussonetia kazinoki Siebold
• Family: Moraceae (Mulberry Family)
• Synonyms:
  • Broussonetia kaempferi Siebold
  • Broussonetia kazinoki Siebold var. australis
• Varieties:
  • Broussonetia kazinoki var. ruyangensis P. H. Ling & X. W. Wei
• Note: The text indicates that Broussonetia kazinoki Siebold is the "accepted name" for this species.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Eastern Asia, including countries such as China and Korea.
• Hardy to zone (UK) 7 and is not frost tender.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deciduous tree or shrub, growing to approximately 4.5 meters (14 feet 9 inches) in height.
• Some varieties are described as shrubs reaching 2-4 meters tall.
• Monoecious, with flowers sometimes produced on leafy stems.
• Extremely vigorous growth habit, reaching 10-15 feet in under 10 years.

Traditional Uses

• Historically used in Asian countries for paper manufacture, utilizing both the stem, root and leaves.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant's extracts have been studied for their potential effects on atopic dermatitis.

Further Information

• USDA Plant Hardiness Map
• International Plant Names Index
• Discover Life
• The Plant List