Umbrella-designed Morus alba ‘Platanifolia’

All Moraceae trees are short-lived, usually not lasting more than a few decades. All are deciduous and very resistant to all types of weather. They grow without problems in all types of soil, including saline and chalky ones. As a result, they are suitable for all parts of Israel. These trees require minimal water; once established, they don’t require any auxiliary watering. Only female trees in the different cultivars of Morus alba bear fruit, contrary to Morus nigra, which grows both male and female flowers so that each individual tree bears fruit. Most trees in the family may suffer from various types of voles that damage the bark or the root crown. The Morus alba originates from Asia. Incidentally, there is no connection between the name of the cultivar and the color of the fruit … Their growth rate is very fast. Their roots are invasive and extend close to the topsoil, so they are not suitable for small gardens, near sidewalks or near sewer infrastructure. And regarding those that bear fruit – the fruit dirties its surroundings and attracts insects and bats (which also create a messes when they defecate).

Morus alba ‘Platanifolia’ also reaches a medium height. Its name comes from its large leaves, whose shape is similar to those of Platanus trees. They turn beautiful shades of crimson red in autumn. To enjoy its broad structure and its shade potential, it is important to preserve the high crown with appropriate pruning. Today, it is common to design the tree on a construction and deploy its shade-giving shape horizontally to create the appearance of a sort of umbrella. A male tree has no fruit of course, and it is worth noting that a female ‘Platanifolia’ also has little fruit, and it is relatively small.

Others in the same family: Morus rubra | Morus alba ‘Pendula’ | Umbrella-designed Morus alba ‘Pendula’ | Morus alba ‘Platanifolia’ | Umbrella-designed Morus alba ‘Platanifolia’ | Morus alba ‘Omry’ (male) | Morus macroura | Morus nigra