White

White Mulberry Tree (Morus alba)

The White Mulberry Tree (Morus alba) is a fast-growing, deciduous tree native to Asia, primarily China. It has been cultivated for centuries, most notably for its leaves, which are the sole food source for silkworms used in silk production. 

Physical Characteristics:

• Size and Shape: Medium-sized tree, reaching 30-60 feet tall, with a rounded, spreading crown.
• Leaves: Alternate, simple, ovate to broad-ovate, with serrated or dentate margins and often lobed, especially on young shoots. They have a glossy upper surface.
• Bark: Young bark is orange-brown with lenticels, becoming gray and fissured with age.
• Flowers: Small, yellowish-green, and inconspicuous, appearing in drooping catkins in spring. Male and female flowers can be on the same tree (monoecious) or different trees (dioecious).
• Fruit: Blackberry-like, fleshy, and juicy, ripening in summer. Fruit color can range from white to pink to reddish-purple and black. While edible, the fruit is often described as sweet but bland compared to other mulberry species. 

Ecological Role and Uses:

• Silkworm Food: The leaves are the preferred food source for silkworms (Bombyx mori), making the tree crucial for silk production.
• Wildlife Food: The fruits are a food source for birds and other wildlife, aiding in seed dispersal.
• Human Food: Fruits can be eaten raw, dried, or processed into jams, wines, and other products.
• Traditional Medicine: Various parts of the tree, including the leaves and bark, have been used in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits, such as lowering blood sugar and blood pressure.
• Wood: The wood is flexible, durable, and used for sporting goods, furniture, and other applications.
• Ornamental: Some cultivars are grown for their ornamental value, especially fruitless varieties that don’t produce messy fruit. 

Cultivation and Growth:

• Hardiness: Tolerant of a wide range of conditions, including heat, drought, and various soil types.
• Growth Rate: Fast-growing, especially when young.
• Lifespan: Relatively short-lived compared to some other trees, typically living less than 100 years. 

Potential Drawbacks:

• Invasiveness: In some regions, the white mulberry can be invasive, outcompeting native plants.
• Messy Fruit: The abundant fruit can create a mess, staining sidewalks and attracting pests.
• Hybridization: Can hybridize with native red mulberry (Morus rubra), potentially threatening the native species. 

In summary, the White Mulberry is a versatile tree with historical and economic importance, but its potential invasiveness and messy fruit production should be considered before planting.