White Mulberry
Morus alba · Deciduous, Broadleaf, invasive in some regions
Plant Family
Moraceae
Tree Category
Fruit Tree, Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species (wild-type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 4 through 9
About This Tree
A medium-sized, fast-growing tree with a broad, spreading, rounded crown. Common in disturbed areas and urban landscapes.
Leaf Characteristics
Alternate arrangement, simple, varied shapes (can be un-lobed or deeply lobed on the same branch), glossy green top, serrated margins, 2-7 inches long.
Bark Characteristics
Orange-brown to gray; smooth when young, becoming deeply furrowed with narrow, yellowish-brown ridges as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to China and East Asia; naturalized throughout North America and Europe
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring; flowers in late spring; fruit matures early-to-mid summer; dormant in late autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-drained soils but is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Mature Size
30-50 feet height and spread; fast growth rate; can live up to 100 years or more.
Special Characteristics
Highly salt and pollution tolerant; edible berries that transition from white/pink to purple-black; historically used for silkworm cultivation.
Wildlife & Ecology
Extremely high value for birds and small mammals who eat the fruit; provides larval food for various moths; flowers attract pollinators.