Morus

These deciduous (leaf-losing) trees, commonly known as Mulberry trees, grow wild in North America and Asia. Mulberry trees can grow to good sizes, but when out in the open, usually develop a short, stout trunk and a thick, wide head of branches. Mulberry trees are long lived and often rejuvenate themselves even after falling to the ground because of decay. A dormant bud near the base of the old tree may germinate or a strong, young stem may sprout. Trees that have been blown down and have some roots showing may continue to grow and fruit for many years. Mulberries are able to grow in climates with long, hot summers and they are suitable for growing near the sea as long as they are sheltered from winds. They are able to withstand the atmospheric impurities found in cities. Mulberries produce male and female flowers in �-inch clusters, in the spring and early summer. The female flowers are followed by �- to 1-inch edible berries. The fruits of the Mulberry trees aren't grown commercially because they are too soft and insipid for the market, but a couple of trees for a garden, farm or yard are worthwhile. Mulberries sometimes produce male and female flowers on separate trees. Fruitless male trees are the ones sought after for shading and growing near paved areas, since there is no fruit to fall and cause stains. In eastern Asia and southern Europe, the Mulberry has been cultivated for its leaves, which are fed to silkworms. M. nigra (Black Mulberry) grows from 25 to 35 feet high and forms a compact crown. The heart-shaped leaves are usually whole, except when younger, they often separate into several lobes. The fruits ripen in the fall and are so dark red they appear to be black. They will stain anything they touch, so care should be taken. The berries can be eaten fresh or used to make jams. M. rubra (Red Mulberry) is the largest of all the Mulberries. In the South it can grow from 60 to 70 feet high; elsewhere, up to 50 feet. The leaves are alternately arranged on the branches. They are ovate or oblong heart-shaped with a pointed tip and serrated edges. The tops of the leaves are dark green and the undersides are paler and fuzzy. The dark red berries grow about an inch long and are good to eat. Its wood is used for light carpentry and as posts. M. alba (White Mulberry) grows up to 50 feet high and produces extremely sweet, pinkish, white, or purplish berries. There are several, attractive varieties of the White Mulberry that will be mentioned below in the varieties section.

Pot Cultivation

Red and White Mulberries will grow in all areas of the U.S.; the Black Mulberries can only be grown in warm climates. Grow them in full sun or light shade in almost any soil, even one that is alkaline. They will grow the best, however, in deep, moist, but well-drained loam. Once the trees are established, they will even withstand periods of drought. Pruning should be done in the winter. It is usually necessary to remove some of the lower branches every few years.

Propagation

Cuttings of young wood may be placed in a closed cold frame, cuttings of ripened wood may be placed outside in the winter, or seeds may be used to increase these trees. Grafting may also be used for propagation.

VARIETIES

• M. alba & var. tatarica (especially cold-resistant), Stribling (fruitless), Kingan (fruitless), pendula (a weeping mulberry), Chaparral (a non-fruiting weeping mulberry);
• M. nigra;
• M. rubra.