Mulberries (Morus nigra) belong to the Moraceae family, which also includes jackfruit and figs. Unlike many berries, mulberries grow on trees rather than bushes. They are best known for their delicious fruit and nutritious leaves, while the attractive hardwood is prized by artists, woodworkers, and basket makers. The leaves and berries provide a valuable food source for ruminants, and the leaves are the exclusive food of silkworms.

Three species of mulberries are commonly grown—red, white, and black. This article focuses on the black mulberry. The berries range from ¾ to 1¼ inches long and have a sweet, rich flavor similar to blackberries.

Mulberry trees can be propagated from seed or from branch cuttings rooted in pots, preferably at the beginning of the rainy season. They grow best in full sun or light, dappled shade. Once cuttings have developed a healthy root system—typically within one to six months—they can be transplanted into well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of approximately 6.2 to 6.8.

Keep in mind that ripe mulberries leave a deep purple stain wherever they fall. If left unpruned, trees can reach 25 feet in both height and width. Young trees require regular watering until they become established and develop a strong root system.

To grow mulberries from seed, clean and dry the seeds from fully ripe fruit. Plant them about ¼ inch deep in potting soil. Once the seedlings reach at least six inches in height, transplant them to their permanent location, spacing trees about 20 feet apart. Water well and apply mulch to help retain moisture.

Mulberry trees are fast-growing and require little maintenance once established. Trees grown from seed or home-rooted cuttings may take five to ten years to begin producing fruit. However, many nurseries and garden centers sell vigorous young trees that bear fruit much sooner.

Pruning is strongly recommended after each harvest to maintain tree health, encourage new growth, and improve future fruit production. In our experience, mulberry trees also attract climbing vines and volunteer shrubs, making occasional cleanup pruning necessary.

Mulberries are hardy trees that tolerate poor soils and are naturally resistant to most insect pests. Birds—and even some dogs—greatly enjoy the ripe berries. To discourage slugs, some gardeners place a ring of fresh wood shavings about 12 inches from the trunk.

Both the leaves and berries are exceptionally nutritious. The leaves can be dried and brewed into a pleasant herbal tea. The berries are rich in vitamins C and K1 and have been valued in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. They are believed to support heart health, help regulate blood sugar, and provide powerful antioxidant benefits. Eating a handful or two of ripe mulberries may also help relieve constipation.

Mulberries are wonderfully versatile in the kitchen. They can be made into pies, jams, syrups, wines, and refreshing beverages. However, many people believe they are at their very best when eaten fresh, right off the tree. Because the berries are delicate and highly perishable, they are seldom found in open-air markets.

An amazing fact: Mulberry trees are long-lived and may be productive for over 1,300 years!

 

RECIPES

A simple mulberry jam recipe:                                  4 cups ripe mulberries   ½ cup water 2 cups sugar 2 TBSP lemon juice Simmer until thickened Pour into sterilized jars

Mulberry Leaf Tea Pick a small handful of leaves Simmer with 2 cups water for 10 minutes Drink hot or cold