The generic name is dedicated to Pierre Marie Broussonet (1761-1807), French naturalist and botanist who introduced in Europe other eastern trees such as ginkgo biloba, that is also represented with some specimens in the gardens of the Real Alcázar. Its specific name papyrifera, such as papyrus, refers to the use of this plant fibers, like linen or hemp, in the manufacture of paper pulp combined with other species like bamboo. Mr. T'sai Lun, who was an employee of the Chinese emperor Ho Ti, first made this paste in 105 AD, originating the paper as we know it today. Although this technique belonged only to the Chinese for 500 years, who kept it jealously during that long period.