Mulberries

What Are Mulberries?

Mulberries are deciduous fruit trees belonging to the Morus genus, renowned for their attractive foliage, spreading canopy, and abundant berries. Adaptable to New Zealand’s varied climates, mulberries provide both visual interest and culinary value. They thrive in most well-drained soils and require minimal care once established, making them a rewarding choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

Not only do mulberries offer luscious fruit in summer, but their broad leaves can provide shelter and food for beneficial insects and native birds. With varieties like the classic black fruiting types and the ornamental weeping forms, there is a mulberry suitable for almost every garden design.

Popular Varieties and Planting Suggestions

When selecting mulberries for your garden, you have several excellent choices. For classic fruiting varieties, the Morus nigra 'Wellington' (Black Mulberry) stands out for its rich, tangy flavour and robust growth. There's also the Morus alba, which is valued for its sweet white berries and is often used in silkworm cultivation.

Mulberries grow best in full sun and appreciate some shelter from strong winds, especially when young. Ensure your chosen location offers space for their mature size, as some types can reach up to 10 metres. Mulberries are generally hardy, tolerant of mild frost, and respond well to regular mulching and an annual feed of compost.

Benefits and Gardening Uses

Mulberries are prized for their multi-season interest. Spring brings lush green leaves, followed by clusters of tasty berries through summer. The trees make excellent shade providers and can be pruned to create a more compact, manageable shape or kept taller for privacy screens. For those seeking more inspiration or help matching plant types to garden needs, the interactive plant finder is a great tool to explore additional options and advice for your space.

Whether you want to plant a specimen tree, start a home orchard, or attract wildlife, mulberries are a resilient and rewarding choice for NZ gardens.