White Mulberry
Morus alba · Hardwood
- Type
- Hardwood
- Origin
- Native to central and eastern China, widely naturalized throughout North America and Europe.
- Hardness
- 2000 lbf (Very Hard)
- Durability
- Durable to Very Durable, with excellent natural resistance to rot, decay, and ground contact.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly irregular grain with a medium to coarse texture; rings are distinct with ring-porous to semi-ring-porous arrangement.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a golden brown to yellowish-orange, sometimes with darker streaks, which darkens to a rich amber or dark brown upon exposure to light. Sapwood is a distinct narrow band of pale yellowish-white.
Hardness (Janka)
2000 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Durable to Very Durable, with excellent natural resistance to rot, decay, and ground contact.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 4.00 to 8.00 USD per board foot for turning blanks and smaller stock; uncommon in standard commercial lumber yards.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Recently harvested green logs (freshly cut within the last few weeks to months).
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices or IUCN Red List; considered a widely available, invasive or introduced species in many parts of North America.
Common Uses
Turning, fence posts, small furniture, bows, cabinetry, and rustic woodworking.
Geographic Origin
Native to central and eastern China, widely naturalized throughout North America and Europe.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though interlocking grain in some sections can cause tearout. Glues, turns, and finishes exceptionally well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes oils, shellac, and lacquers very well; a UV-inhibiting clear finish helps retain the bright golden-yellow color before it oxidizes to a deeper brown.
Notable Features
Features high natural luster, striking golden-yellow fresh color that oxidizes rapidly, and high shock resistance relative to its weight.
