Luzon Paper Mulberry
Broussonetia luzonica
N/A
About this plant
Broussonetia luzonica, commonly known as Luzon Paper Mulberry, is a fast-growing tree native to the Philippines. It has broad leaves and produces a fibrous bark traditionally used for making paper and cloth. The tree is valued for its ability to grow quickly and tolerate dry conditions, making it useful for reforestation and erosion control.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Broussonetia
- Family
- Moraceae
- Higher classification
- Rosales
- Plant type
- Tree
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Philippines
- Distribution
- Native to the Philippines, especially Luzon island; cultivated in tropical Asia and some tropical regions worldwide.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 5–10 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- 10 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 20-30 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10-12
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Soil type
- well-draining loam or sandy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, typically every 6 to 8 weeks. Organic compost can also be beneficial to support healthy growth.
Broussonetia luzonica is a fast-growing tree that adapts well to various soil types and can tolerate some drought. It prefers full sun to partial shade and needs moderate watering. Watch out for overwatering, which can cause root problems. Regular pruning helps maintain its shape and health.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Medium
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring
Large green leaves and small inconspicuous flowers; notable for its fibrous bark used in traditional crafts.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Low spread
Not known to be toxic to humans or pets, but sap may cause mild skin irritation.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- Low
Broussonetia luzonica may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals due to its sap. People with latex allergies should be cautious. To reduce exposure, wear gloves when handling the plant and avoid direct contact with the sap.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot. Insufficient sunlight may cause poor growth. Pests like aphids or scale insects can occasionally affect the plant.
Uses
Used ornamentally for shade and reforestation; bark fibers are traditionally used for paper and cloth making.
Notes
Prune regularly to control size and remove dead wood. Repot young plants annually to encourage growth. Sensitive to frost and cold temperatures below 10°C.