The white mulberry is a medium large deciduous tree with a broad canopy renowned as a shade maker in hot climates. The species is a native of China where its leaves are used to feed worms used in the ancient process of silk making. The strong trunk and branches bear a pleasing grayish-white smooth bark from which it received its common name. Leaves are very large, oval to heart shaped and bright glossy green. Foliage turns butter yellow in the fall.
In early spring the white mulberry produces insignificant flowers which are followed by large quantities of insipid yet edible raspberry-like fruit. It is considered a nuisance for littering pavement with fruits, but is appealing to birds and other forms of wildlife. White mulberry grows in all soil types provided they are well drained. This tree is notoriously surface rooted, which can damage paving and foundations. It is a very fast grower if provided regular water, but is also very drought resistant. To compensate for prolonged drought trees simply slow growth and may become stunted over time. Due to the fruit, the species is rarely grown in gardens, but its many fruitless cultivars have become a staple shade maker for homes in the far western states. (info source: Learn2Grow.com)
Not available for sale in Wisconsin.
Genus - Morus