White Mulberry

Morus alba

Native to:
China

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Moraceae
Genus:
Morus
Species:
Morus alba
USDA Symbol:
MOAL

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Tree
Height:
2000 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
mar,apr,may
Bloom Colors:
greenish, yellow

Host Plant for Caterpillars

American plum borer (Euzophera semifuneralis), Cecropia moth (Hyalophora cecropia), Fig moth (Cadra figulilella)

Reported Fauna Sightings

Moths:Fall webworm (Hyphantria cunea)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Fall Color:
yellow

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
fertile, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
tolerates poor drainage
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to riverbanks and floodplains

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate readily after cold stratification; sow in spring.

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Use repeated cycles of 4°C, then 20°C for 3 months each. Germination is very prolonged. Requires soaking. Place in warm water until seeds swell, usually 24-48 hours. Discard water and any seeds that remain floating. * and all cultivars

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society