Morus alba Giant Fruit - Mullberry

Morus alba 'Giant Fruit' is a beautiful tree with dense branches and large, glossy green leaves. It produces very large purple to black fruits in the summer, which are juicy and sweet. Very tolerant, it can withstand both extreme cold and drought, and can be planted in medium to large gardens. It prefers well-drained soils that are not too shallow, and can be grown in full sun or partial shade.

The White Mulberry, or Chinese Mulberry, is a small tree or large bush native to northern and central China. It belongs to the Moraceae family, which includes the genus Ficus (well-known indoor plants, as well as the fig tree!) and other ornamental trees and bushes such as Broussonetia and Osage Orange (Maclura pomifera). The leaves of this species, now cultivated worldwide, have been used for centuries to feed silkworms, and its bark is used for making textiles and paper. It has large, shiny green leaves, more or less lobed, carried on long petioles, providing welcome shade in sun-drenched gardens. In autumn, these leaves turn to beautiful golden hues. Very hardy, it can also be planted in colder regions as it can withstand -25°C (-13°F). The bark of the mulberry is grey, slightly channelled, and cracks over time. The reddish-brown and slightly hairy buds are also very beautiful. The insignificant flowers in spring give way to large, purple or black fruits in late summer, which are quite bland but juicy and sweet.

The 'Giant Fruit' variety, as its name suggests, produces very large elongated fruits, measuring 5 to 7cm (2 to 3in), between July and August. It has a slightly weeping habit, and reaches a height and width of approximately 7 to 10m (23 to 33ft). Its growth rate is rather slow.

The 'Giant Fruit' Mulberry is very robust. Simply provide it with deep, well-drained soil that is not too wet or too dry, in full sun or partial shade. However, avoid placing the tree above a frequently used walkway, as the fruits can stain easily! While it can withstand heat and pollution, it is not recommended for planting in rows. Its strong root system does not like to be disturbed, so be careful not to damage it by digging too close. This tree does not tolerate heavy pruning: keep it to a minimum, as wounds do not heal well and can sometimes lead to cankers. It is best to plant it in an isolated location, away from the house, which will highlight its slightly trailing habit and allow you to harvest the fruits in late summer without risking your terrace and shoes!