What is a Fruitless Mulberry Tree?

Fruitless mulberry trees are more popular than their siblings, the mulberry tree. Fruitless mulberries don't drop messy fruit, so they're easier to care for. That, coupled with their huge canopy of shade and tolerance for hot conditions, make it an ideal tree for warm climates.

History

Fruitless mulberries hail from North America and Asia, where they both grow wild and are planted as shade trees. They are known for growing fast and surviving in polluted, arid areas. Thus, they are popular landscape trees in smog metropolises like southern California.

Identification

The mature tree is 20 to 60 feet tall. It is deciduous, with vivid yellow-green lobed leaves. Its appearance is that of a huge bush atop a trunk.

Considerations

The tree doesn't need much water after it's established, which takes a year, but while it's a sapling it should get plenty of water. Plant these trees at least 6 feet away from concrete because its roots will be disruptive.

Problems

Fruitless mulberries can get yellow leaves. This may be caused by not enough water, a fungus or rot. Call an arborist to identify the problem.

Pruning

Prune new growth when the leaves have fallen. The tree can be pruned into shapes, too.

References

• Fruitless Mulberry Tree
• Possible Causes Of A Fruitless Mulberry With Yellow Leaves

Resources

• Pruning Fruitless Mulberry