Invasive Plant Factsheet
This native of northern China was introduced in colonial times as a food source for silkworms. Although the silk industry did not succeed, the non-native tree thrived and has since spread throughout almost the entire U. S. It aggressively colonizes open areas, displacing native species, and is considered problematic in many states. Both Alexandria and Arlington list it as invasive.
Native Alternatives
Replacement for fruit:
- Crataegus crus-galli (Cockspur Hawthorn)
- Prunus americana (American Wild Plum)
- Prunus serotina (Black Cherry)
Replacement for size and foliage:
- Acer rubrum (Red Maple)
- Nyssa sylvatica (Black Gum)
- Sassafras albidum (Sassafras)
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Downloadable Print Version (Legal Size):
White Mulberry (Morus alba)
