Two Mystery Trees in a Gulf Coast Yard: Red Mulberry and a Palmate-Leaved Shrub

Two Mystery Trees in a Gulf Coast Yard: Red Mulberry and a Palmate-Leaved Shrub

A gardener had two fast-growing plants (4-6 months old) in areas not mowed. One under a trampoline, the other by a brick wall. Both had different leaves unlike any nearby trees. They provided Photobucket links for photos.

Expert Analysis

The first looks like red mulberry (Morus rubra), definitely a tree with a thick woody stem. The second is trickier: large alternate palmate leaves, not obviously woody, possibly a perennial shrub. Reminiscent of castor bean but stem attachment differs. The lack of flowers/berries suggests perennial/shrub. Location would help; a palm in the background suggests Gulf or West Coast. The expert is better with temperate plants.