Morus alba pendula Weeping Mulberry Standards

Description: Morus alba 'Pendula', commonly known as Weeping Mulberry, is a deciduous tree valued for its elegant, weeping branches and attractive foliage. It is a popular choice for gardeners due to its unique form and easy maintenance.

Flowers:

• Blooms: Inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in late spring to early summer. The flowers are not the main ornamental feature of the tree.
• Fragrance: The flowers are generally not fragrant.

Fruit:

• Fruit: Small, blackberry-like fruit that matures to white or pale pink in summer. The fruit is sweet and edible, often enjoyed by birds and humans alike.

Foliage:

• Leaves: Dark green, glossy leaves that are heart-shaped and have serrated edges. The foliage turns yellow in autumn before dropping, providing seasonal interest.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 2-3 meters tall and wide, forming a rounded canopy with cascading branches that reach the ground.
• Habit: Weeping branches create an umbrella-like form, making it a striking focal point in any garden.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in temperate to subtropical climates, making it suitable for various regions in Australia. It can tolerate a range of climates but prefers warm summers.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the best growth and fruit production.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells.

Uses:

• Landscape Feature: Ideal as a specimen plant in gardens and parks, where its weeping habit can be showcased. It is particularly effective near water features or in mixed borders.
• Edible Garden: Provides sweet, edible fruit that can be used in jams, desserts, or eaten fresh.
• Shade Tree: Its dense, cascading branches create a shaded area underneath, suitable for seating areas or children's play spaces.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Regular pruning helps control its size and encourages a more vigorous growth habit.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and fruiting.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Monitor for spider mites, aphids, and mulberry leaf spot, especially in humid conditions.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8. In cooler regions of Australia, protect from severe frost to prevent damage to young shoots.

Companion Plants: Underplant with low-growing ground covers or perennials that complement the weeping branches, such as hostas or fern

Morus alba 'Pendula' (Weeping Mulberry)

Common Name: Weeping Mulberry

Botanical Name: Morus alba 'Pendula'

Family: Moraceae

Origin: Cultivar selected for ornamental purposes

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