Morus rubra

Flower Details:

• Type: Morus rubra is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers typically grow on separate trees, although some trees may produce both.
• Bloom Time: Flowers appear in late spring, typically from April to May.
• Description: The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with male flowers forming in small catkins, and female flowers appearing in tight, cylindrical clusters. Both are greenish-yellow in color and not particularly showy.
• Pollination: The tree is wind-pollinated, with pollination occurring when the tiny, wind-dispersed pollen grains transfer from the male to the female flowers.

Foliage Details:

• Leaves: The leaves of Morus rubra are broad, heart-shaped, and alternate, growing up to 8 inches long. They have a rough, sandpaper-like texture on the upper surface and are slightly hairy on the underside. Leaves can be lobed or unlobed, depending on the age and position of the leaf. In fall, they turn yellow before dropping.
• Shape/Size: The shape varies from ovate to cordate (heart-shaped) with serrated edges. The size of the leaves ranges from 4 to 8 inches in length and 3 to 6 inches in width.

Fruit Details:

• Type: The fruit is a multiple fruit, resembling a blackberry, composed of numerous tiny drupes.
• Color: The fruit transitions from green to red and then to a dark purplish-black as it ripens.
• Flavor: When ripe, the fruit is sweet, juicy, and edible, often used for jams, jellies, and fresh eating.
• Ripening Time: The fruit ripens in late spring to early summer, typically between May and June.
• Wildlife: The fruit is highly attractive to birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. Mulberries can also be a valuable food source for pollinators and other insects.

Light: Morus rubra thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers full sunlight for optimal fruit production, but it can also tolerate light shade.

Soil: The tree grows best in moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It adapts to a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (5.5 to 7.0).

Watering: Water regularly, especially during its first few years of growth to help establish a strong root system. Once established, it is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering, especially during dry periods.

Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9, Morus rubra tolerates cold winters but thrives in temperate regions. It can withstand winter temperatures as low as -25°F (-31°C).

Fertilizer: Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) to encourage growth and fruit production.

Pruning: Prune the tree in late winter to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Regular pruning can help maintain a manageable size and promote better fruiting.

Propagation: Morus rubra can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by grafting. Seeds should be cold-stratified before planting, while cuttings can be taken in late spring or early summer.

Pests/Diseases: This tree is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be affected by whiteflies, spider mites, and fungal diseases such as leaf spot or powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and pruning can help prevent these issues.