Growing Mulberry Trees: A Sweet Addition to Your Landscape
If you’ve ever wondered about those purple-stained sidewalks in summer or heard childhood stories about mulberry picking, you’re thinking of Morus – better known as the mulberry tree. These prolific fruit-bearing trees have a complex relationship with North American gardens, offering both delicious rewards and some challenges that every gardener should consider.
What Exactly Is a Mulberry?
Mulberries are perennial shrubs or small trees that typically grow as multi-stemmed woody plants, usually staying under 13-16 feet tall, though they can grow taller in ideal conditions. These deciduous plants are known for their heart-shaped leaves and clusters of small, sweet berries that ripen from white to red to deep purple-black.
Where Do Mulberries Grow?
Mulberries have spread far and wide across North America. You can find them growing in virtually every U.S. state, from Alabama to Wyoming, as well as in several Canadian provinces including British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec. They’ve also established themselves in Hawaii and Puerto Rico. However, their native status is somewhat murky – while they’re considered non-native in Hawaii and Puerto Rico, their status in Canada and the continental United States is undefined, suggesting a complex mix of native and introduced species within the genus.
The Good, the Bad, and the Sticky
The Sweet Rewards:
- Delicious, antioxidant-rich berries perfect for jams, pies, and fresh eating
- Excellent wildlife value – small mammals and terrestrial birds rely on mulberries for 5-10% of their diet
- Fast-growing shade provider
- Relatively low maintenance once established
- Attractive heart-shaped foliage
The Challenges:
- Messy fruit drop can stain patios, walkways, and cars
- Can be aggressive spreaders through bird-dispersed seeds
- May require regular pruning to maintain desired size and shape
- Unclear native status means they may not be the best choice for purist native plant gardens
Growing Conditions and Care
Mulberries are remarkably adaptable trees that thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. They prefer full sun but tolerate partial shade, and they’re not particularly fussy about soil type as long as it drains reasonably well. Once established, they’re quite drought tolerant.
These trees are generally easy to grow, sometimes too easy! They can self-seed readily, so be prepared to manage volunteer seedlings if you don’t want a mulberry forest. Regular pruning in late winter helps maintain size and shape while promoting better fruit production.
Landscape Uses
Mulberries work well in:
- Food forests and edible landscapes
- Wildlife gardens where you want to attract birds and small mammals
- Larger properties where you have space for their spreading habit
- Areas where you need fast-growing shade
Avoid planting them near patios, walkways, or parking areas where falling fruit could create a mess.
Should You Plant a Mulberry?
If you love the idea of homegrown berries and don’t mind a bit of seasonal cleanup, mulberries can be a rewarding addition to your landscape. They’re particularly valuable if you’re creating habitat for wildlife or want a fast-growing shade tree.
However, if you’re focused on supporting native ecosystems, consider researching native alternatives in your region first. Native serviceberries (Amelanchier species), elderberries (Sambucus species), or native cherry species might provide similar benefits while supporting local wildlife more effectively.
The bottom line? Mulberries are generally well-behaved, productive trees that many gardeners enjoy. Just plant them thoughtfully, with consideration for their spreading nature and your tolerance for purple-stained everything come harvest time!
