Paper Mulberry

Paper Mulberry is a distinctive deciduous tree or large shrub with bold foliage and curious flowers and fruits.Valued in Japan for its bark, historically used in paper making, it impresses with large, grey-green, hairy leaves up to 20cm long, some entire, others variably lobed. Male trees produce pale green flowers with cream anthers on 7cm hanging catkins, while female trees form spherical flower clusters covered with thread-like purple stigmas. When fertilised, these are followed by strange, globular orange-red fruits that are sweet, juicy, and edible. Hardy and adaptable, Paper Mulberry thrives even on chalky soils, making it an unusual and practical choice for a variety of garden settings. Its unique foliage, flowers, and fruit make it a conversation piece throughout the seasons. Ultimate height and spread: 4m (13ft) to 8m (26.2ft).