Paper Mulberry
Broussonetia papyrifera
Also listed as Morus papyrifera, Papyrius papyrifera
Also known as Tapa Cloth Tree, Aute, Wauke
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A fast-growing deciduous tree native to East Asia, valued historically for its inner bark used in papermaking. It produces small flowers and orange fruit, with attractive lobed leaves and a spreading canopy.
Why grow it
Paper mulberry grows rapidly and establishes in poor soils where many ornamental trees struggle, making it useful for quick screening or erosion control in challenging sites. Its tolerance for compacted, marginal ground and ability to coppice vigorously distinguish it from slower-growing native alternatives in the same ecological niche. The edible fruit and historical fiber value add functional dimensions beyond typical shade or windbreak roles.
Watch out for
This tree's vigorous growth habit and prolific root system can make it difficult to control once established; hand-pulling saplings while young is more effective than relying on later removal. In regions with warm winters, it may sucker aggressively from root fragments if cut down, requiring persistent management to prevent resprouting.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Moraceae
Native Range
Eastern Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A fast-growing deciduous tree native to East Asia, valued historically for its inner bark used in papermaking. It produces small flowers and orange fruit, with attractive lobed leaves and a spreading canopy.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Paper Mulberry grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Paper mulberry grows rapidly and establishes in poor soils where many ornamental trees struggle, making it useful for quick screening or erosion control in challenging sites. Its tolerance for compacted, marginal ground and ability to coppice vigorously distinguish it from slower-growing native alternatives in the same ecological niche. The edible fruit and historical fiber value add functional dimensions beyond typical shade or windbreak roles.
Watch out for
This tree's vigorous growth habit and prolific root system can make it difficult to control once established; hand-pulling saplings while young is more effective than relying on later removal. In regions with warm winters, it may sucker aggressively from root fragments if cut down, requiring persistent management to prevent resprouting.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Moraceae
Native Range
Eastern Asia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar sub-canopy trees you might consider:
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