03/09/2026
🌳 FRUIT TREE OF THE WEEK 🌳
WHITE MULBERRY syn Silkworm Mulberry OR White Shahtoot (Morus alba)
This tree originated from India & China and was mainly cultivated to feed silkworms but the leaves can be fed to almost any livestock when extra feed is needed.
The light green leaves of this tree can be lobed and up to 30cm long on young plants but the leaves are reduced in size on established trees and are generally only 10-15cm (and mainly unlobed but serrated).
Mulberry's have female & male plants, male plants will never produce fruit however female plants will produce edible fruit even without the male plant and unless there is a male nearby these fruit will always be seedless (unpollinated) - cultivated plants are generally female and cutting grown whereas seedling may be either.
White mulberry is a highly nutritious fruit containing vitamin A & C along with minerals calcium and iron. The white fruit is described as having a honeydew melon taste and is loved by birds.
This plant has been used for centuries in Chinese medicine with the roots and leaves being traditionally used to treat dizziness, insomnia & premature aging. However western medicine has only just begun trialing this plants benefits and further research is required after initial positive results regarding its effects on blood sugar, helping lower cholesterol, dental care, protecting against obesity and bone loss as well as enhancing brain functions.
A fast growing, medium sized tree. Relatively tolerant of sun, wind, and salt conditions. Prefer mildly acidic, well drained, sandy loam and clayey loam soils. Can be pruned. Deciduous. Ht 5m
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