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Description
Morus Alba Pendula, commonly known as weeping mulberry, is a deciduous tree that is loved for its unique appearance and easy care requirements. It belongs to the Moraceae family and is native to China. This tree has a graceful weeping habit with long branches that sweep downwards, creating a beautiful canopy. It is a popular ornamental tree in gardens and parks, and is often used as a focal point or specimen tree.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Morus |
Appearance
The weeping mulberry tree has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other trees. It has a broad, spreading crown with long, pendulous branches that reach the ground. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and heart-shaped, with serrated edges. In the spring, the tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are not very showy. The fruit that follows is a small, red, raspberry-like berry that is loved by birds.
Care Guide
The weeping mulberry tree is easy to care for and requires little maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your tree healthy:
- Water: Water your tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The weeping mulberry tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The weeping mulberry tree is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The weeping mulberry tree is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to some problems:
- Scale insects: These small, oval insects can suck the sap from the leaves and branches, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Treat with horticultural oil.
- Mulberry leaf spot: This fungal disease causes yellowing and dropping of leaves. Keep the tree well-ventilated and remove any infected leaves.
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease can cause wilting and death of branches. There is no cure, so infected trees should be removed.
Habitat
The weeping mulberry tree is native to China, but it has been widely cultivated in other parts of the world. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. This tree is often used in gardens and parks as a specimen tree or focal point.
Question and Answer
Q: How big does the weeping mulberry tree get?
A: The weeping mulberry tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and 40 feet wide.
Q: How fast does the weeping mulberry tree grow?
A: The weeping mulberry tree is a slow grower, typically growing only a few inches per year.
Q: Does the weeping mulberry tree require pruning?
A: The weeping mulberry tree does not require pruning, but it can be pruned to maintain its shape or reduce its size.
Q: Can the weeping mulberry tree tolerate drought?
A: The weeping mulberry tree is drought tolerant once established, but it prefers regular watering.
Related Plants
- Morus nigra (black mulberry)
- Morus rubra (red mulberry)
- Morus alba (white mulberry)
References
- “Morus Alba Pendula (Weeping Mulberry).” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a316. Accessed 16 Sept. 2021.
- “Weeping Mulberry Tree.” The Tree Center, www.thetreecenter.com/weeping-mulberry-tree/. Accessed 16 Sept. 2021.
- “Morus Alba Pendula.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3650/weeping-mulberry/. Accessed 16 Sept. 2021.
