Family: Moraceae
Common names: White mulberry,Weeping white mulberry
How lovely it was, to meet a very close relative of the Common mulberry that grew in our home garden in Kerala, in Tbilisi. And what a beautiful tree, with long hanging stems and broad green leaves. The name ‘Pendula’ as well as ‘Weeping white mulberry’ make complete sense
Unfortunately, it was not the season for flowering or fruiting, and I did not get it to see the fruits or how it would differ from normal mulberries.
Weeping white mulberry is a graceful, ornamental form of the Common mulberry or Morus alba that originally comes from China. It is most often seen in temperate and warm climates where summers are warm and winters are cool but not extremely harsh.
It is closely related to the common white mulberry, but this variety is grown mainly for its dramatic, cascading shape rather than for large scale fruit or silk production.
Tree Characteristics
Weeping white mulberry is a small deciduous tree that usually grows between 2 to 4 meters tall, depending on how it is trained and grafted. Its spread can reach 3 to 5 meters, forming a wide umbrella shape.
The branches grow downward in long, flexible arches, often reaching the ground and creating a curtain-like effect. The trunk is usually short and sturdy, with grey-brown bark that becomes slightly fissured as the tree ages.
The root system is strong and spreading, typical of mulberries. Roots can be vigorous and may travel some distance in search of moisture, so it is best planted away from foundations or paved areas.
When grafted onto a standard trunk, the tree develops a clear stem with the weeping canopy forming at the top.
Leaves are bright green, soft to the touch, and quite variable in shape. They can be oval or lobed, measuring about 8 to 15 centimeters long. In autumn, the leaves turn yellow before falling. The flowers are small and not very showy, appearing in spring as greenish catkins.
Fruits are small, about 1 to 2 centimeters long, and resemble slender blackberries when ripe. They usually turn from green to white or pale pink, and sometimes light purple. The fruits are edible and sweet, though generally less abundant than on common mulberry trees.
Gardening Tips
Weeping white mulberry trees grow best in full sun, where they develop a fuller canopy and stronger branching. These trees can tolerate light shade, but too much shade can make the growth sparse and uneven. Choose a planting spot with well-drained soil, although the tree adapts to sandy, loamy, or even slightly clay soils.
Water young trees regularly during their first one to two years to help them establish strong roots. Once established, the tree becomes fairly drought-tolerant and needs only occasional deep watering during long dry periods. Avoid waterlogged soil, as constant wetness can lead to root problems.
Pruning is important to maintain its neat umbrella shape. Light pruning can be done in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and to control size.
Because the branches hang down, they may need trimming to keep pathways clear. Fertilizer is rarely needed in average garden soil, but a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can support healthy growth.
This tree is generally hardy and not heavily troubled by pests. However, it may occasionally attract caterpillars or scale insects. Regular inspection and simple garden treatments are usually enough to manage minor infestations.
Uses of Weeping white mulberry
Weeping white mulberry is mainly used as an ornamental tree. Its cascading branches make it a beautiful focal point in small gardens, courtyards, or lawns. It is especially attractive when planted as a specimen tree where its full shape can be appreciated.
The fruits are edible and can be eaten fresh or used in jams and desserts, although fruiting may be lighter compared to other mulberry varieties. Birds are very fond of the berries, so the tree also supports local wildlife.
Like other white mulberries, different parts of the tree have been used in traditional herbal practices. Leaves have been used in some cultures for teas, and the bark and roots have had uses in traditional herbal medicine. These uses are generally associated with the white mulberry group as a whole, since they are closely related.
In addition, the tree provides light shade in summer and can help cool small garden spaces. Its dense canopy also offers shelter for birds and beneficial insects.
Propagation
Propagation is through grafting, cuttings, and occasionally seeds.
Most weeping white mulberry trees are grafted onto a straight stem of white mulberry to produce the characteristic umbrella form, while hardwood cuttings taken in winter can also root successfully under suitable conditions.
Photographed at: Narikala fortress area, Tbilisi
