Contents
Description
Broussonetia Papyrifera, commonly known as the Paper Mulberry Plant, is a tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is native to East Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. The plant is widely cultivated for its bark, which is rich in fiber and used for making paper and textiles. The tree has a fast growth rate and can reach up to 10 meters in height. Its leaves are large, alternate, and lobed, and its bark is light gray, smooth, and peels off in long strips.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Broussonetia |
Appearance
The Paper Mulberry Plant has a distinctive appearance that makes it easy to identify. Its leaves are large, heart-shaped, and deeply lobed, with a glossy green surface and a rough texture on the underside. The tree’s bark is light gray, smooth, and peels off in long strips. The Paper Mulberry Plant has a fast growth rate and can reach up to 10 meters in height. Its flowers are small and greenish-white, and it produces small, berry-like fruits that are edible but not commonly consumed.
Care Guide
The Broussonetia Papyrifera plant requires minimal care once established. Here are some guidelines:
Water
The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry months. However, it can tolerate short periods of drought.
Fertilization
The Paper Mulberry Plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied once a year during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight
The Paper Mulberry Plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may produce fewer flowers and fruits in shaded areas.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
The Paper Mulberry Plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by scale insects, spider mites, and leaf spot diseases. These can be treated with insecticides or fungicides, respectively.
Habitat
The Broussonetia Papyrifera plant is native to East Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in a wide range of habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and disturbed areas. The plant is widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its bark, which is used for making paper and textiles.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Paper Mulberry Plant toxic?
A: The plant is not toxic, but its sap may cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: Can the Paper Mulberry Plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full height and may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Can the bark of the Paper Mulberry Plant be harvested for paper making?
A: Yes, the bark of the plant is rich in fiber and can be harvested for making paper and textiles.
Q: Does the Paper Mulberry Plant attract wildlife?
A: The plant’s fruits are edible and may attract birds and other wildlife.
Related Plants
- Broussonetia Kazinoki
- Morus Alba
- Morus Nigra
- Morus Rubra
References
- “Broussonetia Papyrifera.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c563.
- “Broussonetia Papyrifera.” Plant Database, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/broussonetia-papyrifera-paper-mulberry.
- “Paper Mulberry Tree: Care and Growing Guide.” Garden Tabs, www.gardentabs.com/paper-mulberry-tree-care/.
