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broussonetia
Scientific Name: Broussonetia
Family: Moraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera)
The paper mulberry, known scientifically as Broussonetia papyrifera, is a fascinating plant with a rich history and diverse uses. Its common name reflects its traditional use in papermaking.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions the presence of milky sap in Broussonetia papyrifera.
Considerations for Children
- The text mentions the presence of milky sap in Broussonetia papyrifera.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Broussonetia papyrifera (L.) L'Hér. ex Vent.
- Common Name: Paper Mulberry
- Family: Moraceae (Mulberry Family)
- Synonyms: Morus papyrifera L., Papyrius papyriferus
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to eastern Asia, including China, Japan, and Taiwan.
- Introduced and naturalized in various regions worldwide, including the southern New England and the southeastern United States.
- Also found in the Pacific countries.
Ecological Role
- Broussonetia papyrifera is considered invasive in some regions, such as parts of Uganda.
- It is a pioneer species, commonly found in disturbed areas.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Deciduous tree or large shrub, reaching heights of 40-50 feet (12-15 meters).
- Fast-growing with a broad, rounded crown.
- Leaves are alternate, sometimes opposite, and mulberry-like, sometimes deeply lobed.
- Hardy to zone 8 (UK) and frost tender.
- Male flowers are pendulous catkins, while female flowers produce globular orange-red fruits.
- Has hairy twigs.
Genetic and Cytological Information
- Chromosome number: 2n = 26
Traditional Uses and Historical Significance
- Historically used for thousands of years to make paper and cloth. The bark provides fiber for these purposes.
- In Hawaii, it is known as wauke or po'a'aha and was brought by canoe.
Quirky Facts
- The bark of the paper mulberry is known as "tapa" and resembles cloth.
- The golden-leaved version can be treated as a cutback shrub to control its size and enhance the production of brilliant golden yellow leaves.
References and Further Information
- Male inflorescences images available at www.forestryimages.org (Gerald D. Carr, University of Hawaii).
- The Plant List includes 34 scientific plant names for the genus Broussonetia.
- EEB Greenhouse Accession Data available.