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Mulberry
Also known as: Common mulberry
A unique and easy-to-grow edible landscaping plant, the mulberry is prized for its tasty fruits as well as its exquisite ornamental appeal. Originally native to China, this plant was valued for its role in silk production: silkworms will only eat the leaves of mulberry trees, making them crucial for the product's creation. Ultimately, the trees were sold around the world and are used today in different countries that produce silk.
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
9 m to 20 m
Plant Height
9 m to 15 m
Spread
Green
Leaf Color
1 cm to 3.5 cm
Flower Size
White, Red, Black, Pink, Purple
Fruit Color
Green, Yellow
Flower Color
Red, Orange
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
0 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

Images of Mulberry

Distribution of Mulberry

Distribution Map
Mulberry is native to China, growing in a variety of habitats but preferring disturbed areas with moist conditions and ample sun. It has been spread globally by cultivation and is listed as invasive in several countries throughout the Americas, Asia, and Europe.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Disturbed areas, woodland margins, fencerows, dry to moist thickets
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value
It can resist smoke, dust and toxic gases.
Economic Value
The mulberry tree is an integral part of the silk industry. Dead branches can be used as firewood, and healthy wood can also be used in medicine and paper-making.
Beauty Improvement Value
Often used in extract-form in skincare products, due to its soothing, brightening and anti-aging properties.
Garden Use
Mulberry is a deciduous woody tree commonly found in gardens. It is prized for its abundant yellow foliage in autumn. Its deep root system makes it suitable for erosion control whilst its far-reaching branches see it planted as a shade-providing ornamental. Mulberry is often used in Japanese and cottage style gardens. Plant shade-loving begonias or snowdrops for color contrast.
Symbolism
Happiness, patience, star-crossed love, wisdom, nurturing, a bridge between heaven and earth
Interesting Facts
The mulberry tree has a full crown and dense branches, and is beautiful when its leaves turn yellow in the autumn. It is a pioneer tree species in urban greening for its ability to absorb dust, smoke and toxic gases. It can be planted as a shade tree, street tree, in industrial and mining areas, and around the countryside, with this being a good greening and economic tree species. Mulberry leaves can be used to raise silkworms, while the fruit can be used for food and wine.
Name Story
White mulberry: Morus alba is a plant with a history of over 4000 years. Before the fruit has ripened, the berries look like a cute and attractive cluster of milky-white grapes. Moreover, the male catkin is covered with a thick, white silk. Hence the common name mulberry is given based on its special appearance.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Mulberry, including the following common varieties :

Toxicity

Mulberry is toxic to cats and dogs. Pets can develop poisoning symptoms from ingesting the plant's fruits or contacting its sap/juice. Key indicators include physical discomfort and illness. Immediate veterinary care is imperative if poisoning is suspected to ensure the animal's health recovery.
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Quickly Identify Mulberry

1
Milky sap from twigs
2
Fruit stains surfaces
3
Glossy, toothed leaves
4
Distinctive bark changes with age
5
Fleshy, sweet-tasting drupes
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Care Guide for Mulberry

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
0 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Originating from areas with distinct seasons, mulberry requires moderate moisture and can endure short droughts. Water once every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to dry slightly. Its water needs decrease during dormancy in colder months, making it easier to care for indoors.
Fertilize: For optimal growth and fruiting, mulberry requires balanced fertilizers applied monthly in early spring, adjusted for size and age. Over-fertilization should be avoided, with no feeding during dormancy in winter. Utilize slow-release fertilizers and water mulberry after application to enhance nutrient absorption.
Pruning: Mulberry thrives with pruning in late winter, focusing on dead wood removal, thinning branches for air circulation, and shaping for aesthetics. This practice boosts fruit production and ensures a robust growth cycle by retaining sufficient buds, while minimizing stress during the dormant season.
Propagation: Mulberry, a hardy member of the Moraceae family, thrives when propagated from healthy semi-wooden cuttings in well-draining soil. Ensure adequate moisture, light, humidity, and air circulation to foster optimal root development and prevent rot for vigorous growth.
Repotting: For optimal growth, use a high-quality potting medium for mulberry and ensure regular feeding during the growing season. This will help maintain the plant's health and promote vigorous development.
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