The Magic Mulberry Tree
Last Updated on 10 August 2026
In the lush nature reserves and forested areas of Singapore, you may come across the Australian Mulberry (Pipturus argenteus)—also known as Native Mulberry, White Nettle, or False Stinger. It may look like an unassuming tree, but when it is fruiting, it becomes something of a wildlife buffet, producing clusters of soft, juicy, whitish fruit that are irresistible to birds and other critters.
Native to Australia and the Pacific, the Australian Mulberry has also made itself right at home in Singapore. Now, this tree isn’t picky about where it grows—it thrives in a variety of habitats and is hardy and fast-growing. And it’s not just the fruit that’s useful. The strong bark fibres can be used to make rope and other woven materials, while various parts of the plant have featured in traditional medicine.
But let’s talk about those fruits—small, sweet, and totally snack-worthy—they’re a hit with both birds and mammals alike.
Now, imagine strolling down Wallace Trail in Dairy Farm Nature Park when you suddenly stumble upon an Australian Mulberry laden with fruit. It’s literally a bird party! For that reason, the tree is affectionately known among Singapore birdwatchers as the “Magic Mulberry Tree”.
These are some of the birds we have caught—beak-bursting, eye-bulging—feasting on these fascinating fruits:
Blue-winged Leafbird (Chloropsis cochinchinensis) male
Blue-winged Leafbird (Chloropsis cochinchinensis) female
Greater Green Leafbird (Chloropsis sonnerati) male
Greater Green Leafbird (Chloropsis sonnerati) female
Asian Red-eyed Bulbul (Pycnonotus brunneus)
Yellow-vented Bulbul (Pycnonotus goiavier)
Olive-winged Bulbul (Pycnonotus plumosus)
Orange-bellied Flowerpecker (Dicaeum trigonostigma)
his freshly fledged juvenile
Swinhoe’s White-eye (Zosterops simplex)
Asian Fairy-bluebird (Irena puella)
Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis)
Pink-necked Green Pigeon (Treron curvirostra)
But watch out—those mischievous monkeys might crash the party and steal some snacks for themselves.
Even the squirrels can’t resist a nibble. So, next time you’re out and about, keep an eye out for these magic mulberry trees—they’re always full of surprises!
