SafePlants

Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera)

The paper mulberry is a fast-growing tree known for its historical significance in paper and cloth production. Let's delve into the details of this fascinating plant.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Broussonetia papyrifera
• Synonym: Morus papyrifera L.
• Family: Moraceae (Mulberry family)

Considerations for Pets

• The plant contains milky sap.

Considerations for Children

• The plant contains milky sap.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Asia, including Japan and Taiwan.
• Has been grown in Asian and European gardens.
• Now found in the eastern United States and Northern NSW.

Ecological Role

• Considered invasive in some areas, including the eastern United States and Queensland.
• Its fast growth and ability to invade disturbed areas contribute to its invasive nature.
• Sometimes planted as a forest boundary-marker species.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deciduous tree, growing up to 50 ft (15.2 m) in height.
• Fast-growing.
• Leaves resemble mulberry leaves.
• Young trees have reddish-brown hairy twigs that are zebra-striped; older trees have smooth tan twigs.
• Leaves have a rough, sandpaper-like upper surface and a soft underside.

Traditional Uses

• Historically, the inner bark has been used as a source of fiber for cloth and paper production.
• Still propagated across the Pacific for making barkcloth.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mentioned as a potential cause of hay fever and asthma in some contexts.