The White Mulberry is widely cultivated for its leaves (fig.), which are the preferred foodstuff for silkworms (fig.). It bears edible berries that are white to pink and red in colour, to deep purple in species found in the wild.

This shrub or tree is also notable for having the fastest known movement in the plant kingdom, which is produced when the plant discharges pollen from its catkins. This happens with the incredible speed of 560 kilometers per hour, and is caused by the stamens that act as catapults when stored elastic energy is released.