White mulberry
Also known as
Silkworm mulberry, Chinese white mulberry, Russian mulberry, White-fruited mulberry
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Morus alba, commonly called white mulberry, is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to China and long cultivated for feeding silkworms (Bombyx mori). It typically reaches 10–20 m tall with a broad, rounded crown. Leaves are highly variable—often entire on mature shoots but lobed on vigorous juvenile growth—glossy above and paler beneath. Inconspicuous green catkins appear in spring, followed by sweet multiple fruits (syncarps) that ripen white, pink, red, or deep purple depending on cultivar. The species is notably tolerant of heat, drought, pruning, air pollution, and a wide range of soils, including alkaline and compacted sites. Its vigorous, spreading roots stabilize slopes but can disturb paving if planted too close. Birds relish the fruit, and seedlings readily volunteer, leading to invasiveness in some regions; it can hybridize with native red mulberry (M. rubra) in North America. While ripe fruit and young leaves are edible, the milky sap and unripe fruit may cause mild gastrointestinal upset or dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for White mulberry
Water
Water deeply and infrequently to build a deep root system. During the first two growing seasons, supply about 2.5–4 cm of water per week from rain or irrigation in one to two thorough soakings. Established trees tolerate short droughts, but consistent moisture improves fruit size and yield. In containers, water when the top 2–3 cm of mix are dry, allowing excess to drain freely; never leave pots standing in water. Maintain organic mulch to moderate evaporation and soil temperature.
Light
Provide full sun for best vigor and fruiting—at least 6–8 hours of direct light daily. The species tolerates bright partial shade but will produce lighter crops and more open branching. In very hot, arid regions, light afternoon shade can reduce scorch on young leaves. Indoors or under glass, position near a south-facing exposure or supplement with high-output grow lights to maintain roughly 40,000–60,000 lux during active growth.
Nutrients
Mulberries are moderate feeders. At planting, mix compost into the backfill and apply a 2–5 cm organic mulch annually. For in-ground trees, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) at bud break at modest rates—excess nitrogen encourages vegetative growth and reduces fruiting. Container or espaliered plants benefit from half-strength, balanced liquid feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth. Avoid late-summer nitrogen to prevent lush, frost-sensitive shoots; maintain soil organic matter for micronutrient balance.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9, white mulberry withstands winter lows near −30°C when fully dormant. Ideal growth is between 18–32°C. Young shoots and flowers are vulnerable to late spring frosts, so avoid frost pockets and protect early blossoms if possible. In hot climates it tolerates high heat provided soil moisture is adequate. Container-grown trees need root protection below about −10°C; move to a sheltered, unheated space or insulate pots to prevent freeze-thaw damage.
