Introducing the Family

The mulberry family (Moraceae) includes diverse crops such as figs, breadfruit, jackfruit and hemp. Of the 12 species of mulberries, three--black, red and white--are of greatest interest.

Black or Persian Mulberry (Morus nigra). Native to Western Asia, grown for fruit in Europe since Roman times. Tree slow-growing, smallest of the three main species, sometimes reaches 20 to 30 feet but tends to be a bush if not trained when young. Fruits large, juicy, with a balance of sweetness and tartness that makes them the best-flavored of all mulberries. Has 308 chromosomes, the largest number of any fruit plant, but all the main cultivars, such as Black Persian and Noir of Spain, show surprisingly little variation. Season mid-late summer into early fall in some areas.

Red or American Mulberry (M. rubra). Native to the area from Massachusetts to Florida to Kansas; once an important food for Indians, later used in the Southeast for feeding swine and poultry. Trees can reach 70 feet. Fruits bright red, turning dark purple when ripe. Flavor variable, often top-heavy on acid, though certain crosses with M. alba, such as Illinois Everbearing, have a balanced flavor that almost equals that of the black mulberry. Pure red mulberries are rare in California.

White Mulberry (M. alba). Native to eastern and central China; naturalized in Europe and America centuries ago, leaves used for silkworm culture. Tree quick-growing, tolerant of harsh conditions, flourishes as a weed in many urban areas; fruitless form common as a shade tree. Species named for the color of its buds, not its fruits, which can be creamy white, light purple or black. Flavor sweet, usually insipid; often dried in the Middle East. Season April to June, occasionally later.

Multicaulis. Fast-growing variety of white mulberry with tender leaves; its arrival in America in 1826 spurred the “Multicaulis craze,” frenzied speculation in mulberry trees for silk culture.

Pakistan. Unusual variety of white mulberry with fruits up to 4 inches long, brought from Islamabad, Pakistan, about 20 years ago. Fruits purplish-black with mild, sweet flavor.

Russian. Hardy variety of white mulberry introduced to America by Russian Mennonites around 1875. Fruits purplish-black to creamy white. Main value as a hedge plant for the rugged climate of the Midwest.