Mulberries Overview
Mulberry Plant Information
Description
Morus sp ‘Dwarf Everbearing’- Dwarf Everbearing Mulberry Tree, is a compact fruit tree that produces a large amount of fruit from May-September once mature, at about 2-3 years old. Grow it as a multi-stemmed bush or train it to be a small tree. The dwarf variety grows 2-6 feet. Self-pollinating. Lifespan of 100 years or more. Grows well in containers.
Characteristics
Fertilizing: Apply slow-release fertilizer in spring. Fruit Color: Black. Fruit Size: Large, long blackberry. Harvest: May- September. Light Requirements: Full sun. Pollination: Self-pollinating. Soil: Loamy, well-draining. Years to Bear: 2-3. Zone: 5-10.
Sizing and Spacing
Mature Size: 4-6 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide. Spacing: Plant at least 8 feet apart to allow room between plants.
Mulberry Nutrition
Similar to blackberries, mulberries are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Mulberries provide over half of the daily recommended Vitamin C in one half cup serving! Mulberries are also slightly higher in protein than blackberries, providing 2.1 grams per half cup. Mulberries are packed with antioxidants, including anthocyanins, resveratrol, and quercetin. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress in the body, which is associated with various chronic diseases and aging. The NIH recommends mulberries among the anti-inflammatory foods to add to your diet. Quercetin, present in mulberries, has anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases, and including anti-inflammatory foods in the diet can be beneficial.
Quick Facts
- Mulberries ripen on the tree, changing from red to black when ripe
- Mulberries can produce in the first year
- Mulberries are hardy and can propagate from cuttings
- Plants have a high yield
Fun Facts About Mulberries
Mulberries are a favorite not only for eating raw, but are great for baking, freezing, and making jam. Mulberries are also loved by wildlife and are an excellent addition to the garden to feed the locals.
Mulberries have been around for a long time- they were mentioned by the ancient Romans! Mulberries were also vital to silk production in China, as silkworms primarily eat Mulberry leaves. Notably, Shakespeare wrote that Mulberries were his most beloved fruit, and there is a Mulberry tree in his garden at New Place, Shakespeare’s final residence.