Paper mulberry
Broussonetia papyrifera · Moraceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around paper mulberry and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring (inconspicuous flowers)
- Adult size
- 8 to 12 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Down to approximately -10 °C
- Origin
- Asia (China, Japan)
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile
Care
Exposure
Install your Spanish mulberry in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. It tolerates various exposures well but prefers a bright location. Avoid overly shaded areas that would slow its vigor.
Watering
Water regularly during the first year to promote root establishment. Once established, it resists drought well thanks to its deep root system. During active growth periods, keep the soil moist without waterlogging.
Soil and amendment
Prepare well-drained, fertile soil enriched with organic matter. This tree adapts to many soil types but fears waterlogging. Adding compost at planting time will give it a good start.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring when vegetation resumes. Annual feeding is sufficient for an established tree. Choose a complete fertilizer (NPK) with moderate concentration to avoid unruly growth.
Pruning and trimming
Perform light pruning in late winter to shape the form and remove dead branches. This tree benefits from early formative pruning to develop attractive architecture. Avoid severe pruning that would weaken the structure.
Diseases and pests
The Spanish mulberry is generally robust. Watch for scale insects or spider mites in dry conditions. Ensure good airflow and avoid excessive leaf moisture to prevent fungal diseases.
Did you know?
The Spanish mulberry has been renowned since antiquity for its fibrous bark, used to make traditional paper in East Asia. Its leaves also feed silkworms, making it a major species in sericulture regions. Despite its 'Spanish' name, it originates from Asia and remains a symbolic tree in Japanese and Chinese culture.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Fig treeFicus carica
- White MulberryMorus alba
- Osage orangeMaclura pomifera
- Red mulberryMorus rubra
- Rubber plantFicus elastica
- Black mulberryMorus nigra
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.