paper mulberry Moraceae Broussonetia papyrifera (L.) L'Her. ex Vent.   symbol: BRPA4
	Leaf: Alternate, sometimes opposite, simple, oval to heart shaped, 3 to 8 inches long, serrated margin, on fast growing shoots the leaves may develop deep, irregular sinuses, upper surface quite rough, velvety beneath, milky sap exudes from petioles. Flower: Dioecious; males elongated, 1 to 2 1/2 inches long and occur in groups, females are round, 1/2 inches in diameter, initially both are pale and dull green, appearing in late spring. Fruit: Round, 3/4 inch in diameter, an aggregate of red drupes. Twig: Moderately stout, light reddish brown and quite fuzzy, buds are conical, leaf scars round, prominent stipule scars. Bark: Greenish gray when young, developing shallow furrows with age and turning grayish brown, old trees become gnarly. Form: Small tree reaching 40 feet, round crown, sprouts readily from roots so it often forms thickets.
	USDA Plants Database Broussonetia papyrifera is planted in the highlighted USDA hardiness zones to the left and may seed into the landscape. See a map of the states in which paper mulberry has escaped (opens a new window).