What Is a White Mulberry Tree?

The white mulberry tree, whose scientific name is Morus alba, produces tasty fruit and has been instrumental in silk production for thousands of years.

Location

White mulberry trees are native to eastern and central China. They weren't introduced to the United States until the early 1800s.

Size

White mulberry trees typically grow between 30 and 40 feet tall with spreads stretching between 10 and 20 feet.

Identification

White mulberry tree leaves, which grow to be between 2 and 7 inches long, are dark green in color but turn yellow in the fall. Tiny white flowers blossom in the spring. The tree's fruit is extremely sweet and resembles raspberries, although it can be white, lavender or black in color.

Benefits

While partial to full sun, white mulberry trees grow in virtually any soil condition and are resistant to drought and heat.

Considerations

White mulberry trees are known for their weak wood. This often causes them to droop and leaves them vulnerable to wind and storm damage.

Fun Fact

Silkworms thrive in white mulberry trees. In fact, the trees were first brought from China to the United States in an attempt to start a silk industry.

References

• TreeHelp.com: White Mulberry
• California Rare Fruit Growers, Inc: Mulberry Fruit Facts
• DavesGarden.com: White Mulberry Tree