Morus alba 'Chaparral' – Weeping White Mulberry

The 'Chaparral' Weeping White Mulberry instantly transforms any landscape with its sculptural silhouette and branches that gracefully sweep the ground. This small ornamental tree stands out with its lustrous dark green foliage that catches the light, creating an elegant and refreshing focal point. Unlike other varieties, 'Chaparral' is a male cultivar that produces no fruit, offering all the architectural beauty of a mulberry without the messy staining on your pavers or patios.

Characteristics

• Foliage: Large, glossy dark green deciduous leaves that turn a golden yellow in the fall.
• Stems and Branches: Flexible, weeping branches that fall in regular cascades from the graft point.
• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun to maintain foliage density but tolerates partial shade.
• Habit: Weeping and compact, forming a regular dome shape.
• Growth: Moderate growth rate; reaches approximately 2.5 to 4 meters in height.
• Soil: Adapts to a wide variety of soils, provided they are well-drained.
• Temperature: Hardy to Canadian Zone 4.
• Resistances: Excellent tolerance to urban pollution and drought once well-established.

Use

• Types of Use: Ideal as a specimen plant in the center of a bed, near a pond, or in large containers.
• Decorative Advantages: Provides a strong architectural structure and unique weeping verticality to the garden.

Maintenance

• Watering: Water regularly during the first two years. Once established, it tolerates brief periods of drought well.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support foliage vigor.
• Pruning: Prune branches that touch the ground in late winter to maintain a clean shape. Remove suckers below the graft.
• Planting: Ensure sufficient spacing to allow the crown to spread naturally.
• Winter Protection: No specific protection is required for mature trees; mulch the base of young specimens.