Paper Mulberry
Broussonetia papyrifera
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Description
Paper Mulberry is a deciduous tree native to East Asia, known for its rapid growth and adaptability to various environments. It typically reaches a height of 10-15 meters and is characterized by its broad, lobed leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. In the context of agroecology and regenerative agriculture, Paper Mulberry plays a significant role as a pioneer species in ecosystem restoration. It is particularly valued for its ability to improve soil structure and fertility through leaf litter and root biomass. Its extensive root system helps prevent soil erosion, making it an excellent choice for stabilizing slopes and rehabilitating degraded lands. The tree provides shade and habitat for wildlife, contributing to biodiversity in agroforestry systems. Historically, its bark has been used for making traditional textiles such as tapa cloth. In a food forest, Paper Mulberry serves as a canopy layer, supporting the growth of understory plants by creating a microclimate that reduces temperature extremes and conserves soil moisture. It can be effectively paired with nitrogen-fixing plants like clover or alfalfa to enhance soil fertility.
Growing Details
Paper Mulberry is best propagated through seeds or cuttings. It thrives in well-drained, loamy soils but can tolerate a range of soil types. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like comfrey can be grown nearby to provide additional nutrients through their deep taproots. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils, to prevent root rot. Harvest young leaves in spring
Edible Parts
Leaves
Fruit
Tags
Hedge
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Invasive
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Broussonetia papyrifera</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> — Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to East Asia, including China, Japan
applicable geo region: East Asia
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of May for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of July for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The young leaves and shoots of Paper Mulberry can be cooked and consumed as a vegetable. The fruit is also edible, though it is not widely consumed due to its small size and seedy nature. The leaves are available in spring and early summer, while the fruit ripens in late summer. Nutritionally, the leaves are a source of vitamins A and C.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: In traditional medicine, various parts of the Paper Mulberry tree are used for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The bark and leaves have been used to treat skin conditions, while decoctions of the roots are used for respiratory ailments. Caution is advised as the sap can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
health concerns: The sap of Paper Mulberry can cause skin irritation in some individuals.
other uses: Paper Mulberry is highly valued for its bark, which is used to make high-quality paper and traditional textiles such as tapa cloth. The tree is also used for its fiber in rope and cordage production.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Broussonetia papyrifera
common names: Paper Mulberry; Tapacloth Tree; Bark Cloth
family: Moraceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Broussonetia
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 20°C / 15°C / 25°C
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25°C / 10°C / 35°C
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: Medium
hardness:
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▁
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(8/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 15.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Dioecious
growth details: Paper Mulberry is best propagated through seeds or cuttings. It thrives in well-drained, loamy soils but can tolerate a range of soil types. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost. Mulching with straw or wood chips helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like comfrey can be grown nearby to provide additional nutrients through their deep taproots. Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils, to prevent root rot. Harvest young leaves in spring
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for scale insects. Companion planting with garlic or marigolds can help deter pests. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases in humid conditions.
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