Adress
Egmont Park Brussels
GPS coordinates :
50.8375 , 4.3568
Scientific inventory
644
In the mood of Park Egmont

Identity

Category :
Arbre remarquable
Latin name :
Morus alba
French name :
Mûrier blanc
Dutch name :
Witte moerbei
English name :
Family :
Moraceae
Height :
15 m
Targeted height :
This species can grow up to 15 m
Diameter of the crown :
3 m
Trunk circumference :
130 cm
Expected circumference :
200 cm
Expected longevity :
Can live for 400–500 years
Origin / Indigenous
Favorite soil :
Favorite climate

Features and characters of the individual

White mulberry trees of this size are rare in Brussels. Was the gardener who planted them trying to make a nod to history? Or perhaps experimenting with planting species adapted to the changing climate? A little less than 100 years ago, mulberry trees became very popular in Brussels (and across Belgium). They were grown for raising silkworms, rather than for their delicious fruit. This craze didn’t produce the economic success that may have been anticipated, as the climate of the time put a damper on things. These particular two trees are too young to have witnessed this though. In contemporary times, they are have benefited from the microclimate created by the sun’s reflections from the multitude of windows above (The Hotel building), and by the concrete passage connecting to Boulevard de Waterloo. If you’re passing by before the birds have eaten them all, keep an eye out for the berries produced in July.

Photos: Priscille Cazin - Sylvolutions /32shoot asbl
Photos: Priscille Cazin - Sylvolutions /32shoot asbl
© PC-Z
© PC-Z