Morus alba (white mulberry)

Morus alba (white mulberry). . , Family: Moraceae (Mulberry Family), Distribution: White mulberry, native to China, has been reported as introduced in every state in the United States except Nevada, and throughout Canada except the central provinces. It is present in over two dozen counties in West Virginia. We originally thought the trees here in the Nature Park were native red mulberry but fruit colors and other characteristics have now confirmed their identity as white mulberry., Size: Trees can reach heights of 30-60 feet., Habitat/Description: White mulberry grows well in a number of disturbed habitats like fields, vacant lots, river banks, roadsides, and forest edges. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and in a variety of soil types that can be moist or dry. Alternate simple leaves are toothed along the edges and of various shapes, unlobed or lobed with up to seven lobes. Lobes of white mulberry are rounded and leaf surfaces are smooth and glossy on the upper side, while lobes of red mulberry are pointed and usually fewer, with an upper leaf surface dull and rough. Separate male and female flowers are usually borne on different plants, with male flowers in catkins and female flowers in small, knobby bunches. Fruits are like blackberries: aggregates of little drupes. Mature fruits of white mulberry can be pink, white, red, or black, while those of red mulberry are typically red to black. The milky latex may be a skin irritant., Fruits are eaten by birds, deer, squirrels, raccoons, turtles, and other wildlife, while leaves may be eaten by some animals, including livestock. Beavers may feed on the wood. Unfortunately, white mulberries are considered invasive in many places where they compete with native plants. Hybridization with the more valuable native red mulberry may result in loss of some desirable red mulberry traits., Ethnobotanical Uses: White mulberry trees were brought to the American colonies from Asia in the 1600's in hopes of establishing silkworm plantations. However, cold winters and various diseases prevented success. Concoctions made from the leaves are purported to contain antioxidants, to lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, to treat colds, arthritis, hair loss, you name it! Root bark contains some antibacterial substances. Used in traditional Chinese medicine, various kinds of white mulberry herbal teas are available today. White mulberries can also be eaten raw, or cooked in pies, or made into jams, jellies, and wine. The wood is valuable for making tennis and badminton rackets, hockey sticks, and various household goods. Stem fibers have been used for weaving and to make paper.