Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera)
Broussonetia papyrifera · Moraceae (Mulberry family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Ovate to broadly cordate, sometimes shallowly lobed, variable shape on the same tree
Margin
Serrate (coarsely toothed) along the edges
Arrangement
Alternate, sometimes subopposite
Venation
Palmate venation from the base with prominent net-like reticulation
Key Features
Extremely rough adaxial (upper) surface, soft pubescent abaxial (lower) surface, palmate venation originating at the base, and characteristically variable leaf shapes even on the same branch
Description
The Paper Mulberry is a fast-growing deciduous tree known for its soft, velvety, and sandpapery leaves that often display a high degree of morphological variation, sometimes remaining unlobed while others feature deep, mitten-like lobes. The tree produces smooth, light-colored bark that becomes furrowed with age, and distinct clusters of globose, fleshy fruits that ripen to an orange-red color.
Habitat
Thrives in disturbed areas, forest edges, abandoned fields, and along roadsides; prefers moist, rich soils and full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to eastern Asia (including China, Japan, and Korea); widely introduced globally as an ornamental and for paper production, often becoming invasive in North America and parts of Europe