Paper Mulberry Broussonetia papyrifera

Names

• Family

  Moraceae.

• Synonyms

  Paper Mulberry, Tapacloth Tree, Dak, Halibun, Kalivon, Kozo, Tapʻa Cloth Tree.

• Common names

  Morus papyrifera, Papyrius papyrifera, Broussonetia papyrifer, Morus papyrifer.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant commonly known as paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) is not generally considered toxic to humans. However, the sap of the plant can cause irritation to the skin in sensitive individuals. Ingesting parts of the plant is not commonly associated with poisoning in humans, and there is limited information on the symptoms of ingestion as it is not typically consumed.

• To pets

  The paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera) is also not widely recognized as a toxic plant to pets. However, as with many plants, ingesting large amounts of foliage may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea in some pets due to the plant matter rather than specific toxins. Keep an eye on pets that like to chew on plants and contact your veterinarian if you observe unusual symptoms.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Varies

• Height

  30 feet (9.14 meters)

• Spread

  35 feet (10.67 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  6

• Native area

  Asia

General Benefits

• Material Production: Broussonetia papyrifera, commonly known as Paper Mulberry, has been used historically to make paper, particularly in East Asia, owing to its strong, fibrous bark which is suitable for papermaking.
• Textile Fiber: The inner bark provides fibers that can be used to create textiles, ropes, and other fabric-like materials.
• Fodder: The leaves and young shoots of the Paper Mulberry can serve as fodder for livestock in rural areas, providing an additional source of nutrition for animals.
• Cultural Significance: In various cultures, the Paper Mulberry has historical and cultural importance, often associated with traditional crafts and ceremonies.
• Edible Fruits: The fruit of the Paper Mulberry is edible and can be consumed, either raw or cooked, adding a dietary option for humans.
• Erosion Control: Its root system helps to stabilize the soil, reducing erosion particularly on slopes and disturbed ground.
• Shade and Ornamental Use: Paper Mulberry can be used as a shade tree in gardens and parks and has ornamental value due to its attractive foliage and form.
• Agroforestry: Paper Mulberry can be incorporated into agroforestry systems, providing multiple benefits such as shade for other crops, material outputs, and soil enrichment.

Medical Properties

• Anti-inflammatory: Broussonetia papyrifera has been used to reduce inflammation in traditional medicine.
• Antioxidant: The plant contains compounds that exhibit antioxidant properties.
• Anti-bacterial: Extracts from this plant have shown antibacterial effects against certain strains of bacteria.
• Hepatoprotective: It may offer some protection to the liver from toxic substances.
• Analgesic: The plant has been used to alleviate pain in some traditional medicine systems.
• Wound healing: Traditional use includes the application of parts of the plant to promote wound healing.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• Broussonetia papyrifera, commonly known as paper mulberry, can be used in landscaping as an ornamental tree due to its unique foliage and bark texture.
• The inner bark of paper mulberry can be used in fibre arts for creating textured fabrics and papers with a distinctive appearance.
• The fruit of paper mulberry can be employed as a natural dye for fabrics, yielding hues that range from soft yellows to deep oranges.
• In some cultures, the leaves of paper mulberry are used as a fodder for livestock, especially silkworms, which are the producers of silk.
• The wood of paper mulberry is soft and can be used for making lightweight objects, such as drums and other musical instruments, which benefit from its resonant qualities.
• Due to its rapid growth and spreading habit, paper mulberry is used for erosion control in some regions, preventing soil degradation and loss.
• The fallen leaves of paper mulberry can provide a rich source of nutrients as a mulch for gardens and agricultural lands.
• In traditional crafts, paper mulberry bark fibers are woven into mats, baskets, and other utensils in various Pacific cultures.
• Paper mulberry thickets can serve as a habitat for wildlife, providing shelter and food for birds and insects.
• In the creation of kites, the lightweight and strong fibers of paper mulberry wood and bark are ideal materials for frames and paper coverings.

Feng Shui

The Paper Mulberry is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Paper Mulberry is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Cultural Heritage: The Paper Mulberry is deeply intertwined with East Asian cultures, notably in China, Korea, and Japan, where it has been cultivated for centuries for making paper. It symbolizes the rich traditions and history of papermaking in these societies.
• Knowledge and Wisdom: As a source of paper, a primary medium for the spread of knowledge and ideas through writing, the Paper Mulberry is often associated with wisdom, learning, and the communication of thoughts.
• Resilience and Adaptability: The Paper Mulberry is a hardy plant able to grow in various climates and conditions, symbolizing the ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments.
• Connection and Communication: Given its role in paper production, the Paper Mulberry represents connection between people through letters and written communication, underscoring the importance of sharing information.