Mulberries, originally from the subtropics, are related to figs. In Germany they are planted as ornamental plants or because of their tasty, juicy fruits. They are uncomplicated to grow and care for.
What types of mulberry trees are there?
Popular mulberry tree varieties include white, red and black mulberries, as well as interesting hybrids such as Carman and Kagayamae. When choosing, you should pay attention to factors such as fruit color, taste, harvest time, height, winter hardiness and leaf shape.
The white mulberry was originally introduced to Europe for the breeding of silkworms, i.e. for silk production. Like the red mulberry, it is considered quite winter hardy. The black mulberry is sensitive to cold wind and frost. These original species have been refined and crossed many times, so that today there are numerous different varieties that meet different requirements.
Interesting hybrids
The breeders have created some very interesting hybrids that combine the advantages of the different original varieties. These include, for example, the Carman variety, this cross combines the sweetness of the white mulberry with the aroma of the red mulberry and produces fruit even as a very small plant.
The Kagayamae mulberry is a rare ornamental tree with very large leaves. Since it only grows three to four meters high, it is also suitable for smaller gardens. The beautiful shade provider has black and red sweet berries. The Illinois Everbearing mulberry gives you a relatively late harvest. It bears plenty of large fruits and up to five meters tall.
Selection criteria for a mulberry tree:
- Color, quantity or taste of the fruit
- Harvest time
- Growth height of the tree
- Winter hardiness of the tree
- special growth habit
- Leaf shape
Mulberry trees in the orchard
Mulberries are not only edible but very tasty. They resemble blackberries and taste sweet and sour. Mulberries contain a lot of minerals such as zinc and iron, but also plenty of potassium, calcium and magnesium. Depending on the variety, the fruits are white to purple or red to black. White and red mulberries are sweeter than the black ones.
All fruits do not have a long shelf life, so you should consider that before buying. You can make mulberries into jam, jelly or syrup, bake cakes with them, or dry or freeze the mulberries. Berries that you don't use will be eaten by birds, insects, and other small animals in your garden.
Tips & Tricks
Choose your mulberry tree according to your needs as a useful or ornamental plant.