The mulberry plant (genus: Morus) is a fast-growing, deciduous tree or shrub known for its edible fruits and leaves. Here's a detailed description:
🌿 General Characteristics
Scientific Name: Morus spp. (e.g., Morus alba - white mulberry, Morus nigra - black mulberry, Morus rubra - red mulberry)
Family: Moraceae
Type: Deciduous tree or shrub
Lifespan: Typically long-lived, with some species surviving over 100 years
🌱 Leaves
Shape: Broad, ovate, with serrated edges
Texture: Smooth or slightly hairy
Color: Bright green, turning yellow in fall
Special Use: Leaves of Morus alba are the primary food source for silkworms
🌸 Flowers
Type: Small, greenish, and inconspicuous
Sex: Either unisexual or bisexual, depending on the species
Pollination: Mainly by wind or insects
🍇 Fruits
Appearance: Aggregate fruits resembling blackberries
Color: Varies by species (white, red, purple, or black when ripe)
Taste: Sweet to tart, juicy
Edibility: Highly edible, used in jams, wines, and desserts
🌳 Growth Habit
Height: Typically 10–15 meters (33–50 feet), but can be pruned shorter
Crown: Rounded or spreading
Bark: Grayish brown, rough with age
🌍 Habitat & Cultivation
Native Regions: Temperate and subtropical regions of Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas
Soil: Well-drained, fertile soils
Sunlight: Prefers full sun
Water: Moderate water needs; drought-tolerant once established
🌿 Uses
Fruits: Eaten fresh or dried, used in baking, winemaking, and preserves
Leaves: Silkworm feed (especially Morus alba), also used in herbal medicine
Wood: Lightweight and strong, used in crafting and furniture
Traditional Medicine: Used for anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties
Would you like a botanical illustration or cultivation tips for growing mulberry?