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Description
Morus Alba, commonly known as the White Mulberry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is native to China but has been introduced to many parts of the world. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a round canopy. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, followed by its fruit, the mulberry, in the summer. Mulberries are edible and can be used in a variety of recipes, including jams and pies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Morus |
Appearance
The White Mulberry has a smooth, grayish-brown bark and can grow up to 20 meters tall. Its leaves are alternate and heart-shaped, with serrated edges. They can grow up to 15 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by its fruit, the mulberry, in the summer. The mulberry is a small, sweet fruit that is dark purple or black when ripe.
Care Guide
The White Mulberry is a hardy tree that can grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The tree prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: The tree can be fertilized in the spring, using a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil and can grow in a variety of soil types.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The White Mulberry is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause discoloration and distortion of leaves. They can be controlled using insecticidal soap.
- Scale Insects: These insects can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves. They can be controlled using horticultural oil.
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause dieback of branches. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed.
Habitat
The White Mulberry is native to China but has been introduced to many parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Africa. It can grow in a variety of conditions, including full sun and partial shade, and in different soil types. The tree is commonly found in forests, along roadsides, and in urban areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the White Mulberry be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the White Mulberry can be grown in a container, provided it is given enough space to grow and is watered and fertilized regularly.
Q: Are White Mulberries edible?
A: Yes, White Mulberries are edible and can be used in a variety of recipes, including jams and pies.
Q: What is the best time to prune a White Mulberry?
A: The best time to prune a White Mulberry is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: Is the White Mulberry invasive?
A: The White Mulberry can be invasive in some areas, as it can spread quickly and outcompete native vegetation.
Related Plants
- Morus Nigra (Black Mulberry)
- Morus Rubra (Red Mulberry)
- Morus Macroura (Himalayan Mulberry)
References
- “Morus alba.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b620. Accessed 19 Aug. 2021.
- “Morus alba.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1393/. Accessed 19 Aug. 2021.
- “White Mulberry.” Arborday.org, www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=1017. Accessed 19 Aug. 2021.
