Paper Mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), a tree native to East Asia, has become a growing concern in Bengaluru. Originally introduced to India in the 1880s for urban forestry, the plant was valued for its bark, used in making paper and tapa cloth. However, over the last 25 years, the species has rapidly spread across Bengaluru, moving from the city’s core to its outskirts. Today, Paper Mulberry accounts for 30% of the city’s greenery.
While the tree was initially popular for its ornamental value, it is now considered an invasive species. Paper Mulberry is highly allergenic, and its pollen can trigger asthma and other respiratory issues. The plant’s aggressive growth also threatens local flora, as it competes for space and nutrients, often displacing native plants.
Experts have raised concerns about the proliferation of non-native species in Bengaluru, including Paper Mulberry and other exotic trees like Tabebuia and Jacaranda. These species have largely replaced native plants, many of which have medicinal properties. According to environmentalist and retired forest officer AN Yellappa Reddy, urbanization has led to a preference for non-native species without proper monitoring of their environmental impact.
NM Ganesh Babu, a forest botanist, highlighted the tree’s two distinct sexes: male trees produce vast amounts of pollen, while female trees bear fruit. Both types are vigorous, and the tree bears fruit twice a year. Ganesh criticized the city’s urban planners, noting that the BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike) continues to plant exotic species like Paper Mulberry and Conocarpus lancifolius despite their harmful effects on human health and the environment. He pointed out that the Gujarat government recently banned Conocarpus for similar reasons.
Retired IFS officer Sridhar Punathi emphasized that Bengaluru’s climate, with its ample rainfall and moderate temperatures, supports a diverse range of species, including those from the Western Ghats. This makes it all the more important to prioritize native plants that contribute to the local ecosystem.
For the past 30 years, Ganesh’s organization has been working to revitalize native medicinal plants, many of which are essential to Ayurvedic practices. He expressed concern that continued habitat loss and illegal trade could deplete these vital resources.
Professor K. Ravikumar, a field botanist, noted that Paper Mulberry was originally cultivated for its attractive fruits and broad leaves. However, it has since spread uncontrollably throughout Bengaluru, disrupting local ecosystems. Ravikumar warned that the tree depletes the soil’s nutrients, contributing to soil erosion and further harming biodiversity. He also pointed out that despite its striking appearance, the tree does little to support local wildlife.
Ayurvedic practitioner Chaithrika Hegde highlighted the ecological impact of Paper Mulberry, especially in areas like Sankey Tank and Palace Grounds, where large clusters of the tree dominate the landscape. She emphasized the tree’s role in triggering allergies, including asthma and skin rashes. Hegde expressed frustration that both the public and environmentalists have been slow to address the issue.
In response to growing concerns, BBMP officials acknowledged the spread of Paper Mulberry in various areas and promised to take corrective action. Yellappa Reddy called for the formation of an expert committee to assess the situation and determine which species should be planted in specific areas.
The rapid spread of Paper Mulberry underscores the urgent need for action. Invasive species like this pose significant risks to both the environment and human health. Early intervention is crucial to prevent further damage to Bengaluru’s natural landscape. Replacing these non-native plants with native saplings is a necessary step in preserving the city’s biodiversity and ensuring a healthier urban ecosystem.
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