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| Morus alba
White mulberryCulture: If there are two shrubs or trees that I would say will take over North America, this would probably be one of them (followed by Lonicera maackii). Seemingly adaptable to all environments, this species doesn't care where it is sited, as it will find a way to grow regardless. Perhaps its only requirement is full sun to partial shade, although it is most happy in moist, well-drained sites. There are occasional problems with cankers, mites, and bacterial blights. Earwigs seem to love the fruit, and often live in these trees. Usage: This plant is probably best left unused -- it will find a way into your garden anyhow. If there is a plant in your neighborhood, seedlings will sprout and grow through hedges, shrubs and piles of debris. Simply pruning the invading seedlings to the ground, even repeatedly, just encourages the plant to branch and continue growing. Existing plants should be eliminated and you will do your neighborhood a favor if you can convince other owners to get rid of theirs as well. Fortunately for really tough sites, there are many fruitless forms available. Some of the more common standard sized fruitless cultivars include: 'Fruitless', 'Hampton', 'Striblingii' (='Mapleleaf'). |
