white mulberry
Quick Summary
The white mulberry (Morus alba) is an Asiatic tree known for its white to light or dull red fruits. This species is particularly favored for feeding silkworms and is widely cultivated, often escaping into the wild.1
Mulberries, belonging to the genus Morus, are small to medium-sized trees native to temperate Asia and North America. They are characterized by toothed, alternately arranged leaves and produce sweet, edible fruits that resemble blackberries and ripen in various colors.2
While the white mulberry is primarily known for its role in sericulture (silkworm farming), other mulberry species like the red mulberry (Morus rubra) and black mulberry (Morus nigra) are cultivated for their fruits. The white mulberry itself has naturalized in eastern North America and includes varieties like the cold-resistant Russian mulberry.2
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