Morus alba

Morus alba, more widely known as the white mulberry, is a perennial fruiting tree native to China.  For thousands of years, white mulberry trees have served as a food source for silkworms in China, and were consequently introduced to the United States to establish a new silk industry.  However, this industry never developed and the incredibly hearty white mulberry tree quickly became an invasive invader, and now it is recommended to only plant non-invasive cultivars.  When deciding to plant one, ensure it is not currently illegal to do so in your area, as they have been outlawed in many states.  Young white mulberry saplings can produce leaves up to 1 ft / 30 cm in length, but the mature tree's foliage is rarely larger than half that.  Bright green, round-bottom leaves with toothy edges fill the white mulberry tree's dense canopy, which has a wide conical shape.  Tiny catkin flowers are produced amongst the foliage, typically with all male or female blooms on one tree, though both can be present.  The male catkins fling their pollen by growing an organic catapult mechanism that releases during a certain point in its development, obviating the need for pollinating insects.  White to red fruits appear in great quantities and may create a large mess where they fall, though they can be collected and eaten, dried, or used to make jams.  

For optimal growth, provide white mulberry trees with a location that receives a copious amount of bright sunlight, though they can be grown in mildly shaded areas as well.  Any soil conditions, aside from being consistently waterlogged, will be able to grow hearty white mulberry trees.  However, planting in rich, loamy, well-draining soil will promote healthy growth and better harvests compared to poorer soils.  Until established, water white mulberry trees with 10 gallons per 1 in / 2.5 cm of trunk weekly during the growing season for approximately two years.  After becoming established, they should not require any supplemental watering.  White mulberry trees are resilient to most temperature conditions and should not be fertilized, as this may weaken the strength of their branches and make them more susceptible to damage in strong winds.  Learn more in the Plant Story community!

3-6 hours of sun per day, with protection from intense mid-day sun

Water moderately, allowing the top 3cm to dry out between watering.

Morus Alba

Morus alba

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Ornamental

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