Species paper mulberry
Green leaves with green fruits and globe of orange buds.

paper mulberry

Broussonetia papyrifera

Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) is an amazing plant species native to Southeast Asia and the Indian sub-continent. It has a fast-growing, wide-spreading, and graceful habit and produces lovely white flowers in summer. Its paper-like bark is its most striking feature. This thin, papery bark can be easily peeled off the trunk and used to make paper and even clothes. The plant also produces edible berries and provides shelter and food for wildlife. Paper Mulberry is an incredibly versatile and fascinating species that is well worth growing in modern gardens.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 9

Flowers:

Pale green Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

yellow,orange Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Paper Mulberry plants should be watered heavily once a week in the summer months and every other week in the winter months. The amount of water can vary depending on the type of soil and the size of your plant, but a general guideline is 1 to 2 inches ( 2.5-5 cm) of water per week. Make sure that the soil is saturated but not waterlogged. Additionally, having a drainage system in place is ideal to ensure the roots are not standing in water.

sunlight

The paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) requires a minimum of 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day in order to thrive. It is best to give the plant an equal amount of direct sun throughout the day. In regions with longer winters, the plant should receive more sunlight to keep it healthy and vigorous.

pruning

Paper mulberry plants need to be pruned annually in late winter to early spring once the plants begin to grow again. Prune the branches back to the desired size and shape, being sure to cut at least 1-third of the branches to promote healthy new growth. Remove any dead, broken, or diseased branches to prevent further damage to the plant. If you’d like to encourage more lush foliage, thin overcrowded branches and prune branches back to the desired height. This will not only give it a better shape, but also promote bushier growth at the top.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Paper mulberry typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Broussonetia papyrifera is usually in July and August.

Hardiness Map