Paper Mulberry, Broussonetia papyrifera 0.5 kg - Seeds

Paper Mulberry, Broussonetia papyrifera, is a very fast-growing deciduous tree of the fig and mulberry family, historically prized in East Asia for the strong inner bark used to make traditional paper and bark-cloth. Native to East Asia, it has been widely introduced and is now naturalised in parts of India, where it spreads readily on disturbed ground and tolerates a wide range of soils. Its quick growth and large lobed leaves make it useful for fibre, fodder, fuelwood and quick shade, though its vigour means it should be sited and managed carefully.

• Family: Moraceae
• Native region: East Asia (naturalised in parts of India)
• Mature height: 10–20 m
• Growth rate: Very fast

The seeds are tiny and benefit from a short soak in water before sowing to soften the coat and improve uptake. Surface-sow or barely cover them (about 0.5 cm) on a moist, well-drained seed mix kept warm and bright, as light aids germination. Seedlings appear over roughly two to four weeks; once large enough to handle, prick them out into bags and grow on before planting into a chosen, contained site.