Morus rubra (Red Mulberry)

A prolifically fruiting species, Morus rubra (Red Mulberry) is a medium-sized deciduous tree with a short trunk and a broad rounded crown. The foliage is quite variable with deeply lobed or unlobed leaves, 8 in. long (20 cm), adorned with soft hairy undersides. The leaves turn bright yellow in the fall. Inconspicuous flowers held in short green catkins appear on separate male and female trees in early spring. The fertilized female flowers give way to edible, oval, dark purplish-red fruits, 1 in. long (2.5 cm). Fruits are sweet and juicy and may be eaten off the tree or used for jellies, jams, and wines. Birds feast on them. Native Americans used the fruits fresh, for beverages, breads and cakes, dumplings, and preserves.

• Grows up to 30-50 ft. tall (9-15 m) and 30-40 ft. wide (9-12 m). Self-seed somewhat prolifically.
• A full sun lover, Red Mulberry is easily grown in rich, moist, deep, well-drained soils. Tolerates part shade.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Look for borers, whiteflies, leaf scorch, canker, powdery mildew, scale, spider mites, and mealybugs.
• Prune in late fall or winter.
• Unripe fruit and milky sap from all parts have low toxicity if eaten.
• Propagate by seed or cuttings.
• Native to eastern and central North America.