Mulberry trees produce edible fruits. Accurate identification relies on understanding the distinct characteristics of their fruit, leaves, and tree structure.
Mulberry Fruit Characteristics
Mulberry fruit is a multiple fruit, forming from a cluster of tiny individual fruits called drupelets, fused together around a central core. This structure gives it a resemblance to a blackberry or raspberry. Each fruit typically measures 1 to 3 centimeters in length.
The color of ripe mulberries varies significantly by species and ripeness, ranging from white to red, and dark purple or black. For example, white mulberries (Morus alba) can produce white, lavender, or even black fruits when mature, while red mulberries (Morus rubra) usually ripen to a deep red or purplish-black. When fully ripe, mulberries become soft, plump, and juicy.
Mulberry Leaf Identification
Mulberry leaves are a key identifier. They are alternately arranged on the stem and can display a notable variation in shape. Leaf shapes can range from unlobed, heart-shaped, or ovate, to distinctly lobed forms, with lobing more common on younger shoots.
The edges of mulberry leaves are typically serrated or toothed. The upper surface often has a slightly rough or sandpaper-like texture, particularly in red and black mulberry species, while white mulberry leaves tend to be smoother and shinier. Their color is generally green, transitioning to yellow in autumn.
Mulberry Tree and Growth Habits
Mulberry trees are deciduous and can range in size from large shrubs to medium-sized trees, typically growing between 20 to 79 feet tall depending on the species. White mulberries are often the tallest, while black mulberries are generally smaller. The bark is usually grayish-brown, and can be smooth or become furrowed and ridged with age.
These trees often develop a spreading or rounded crown of branches. Mulberries can be found in various habitats, including gardens, wild areas, and along roadsides. A distinctive characteristic of mulberry trees is the milky white sap, or latex, that can exude from broken stems, twigs, or leaves, which can be mildly irritating or toxic if ingested.
Distinguishing Mulberries from Similar Plants
Mulberries are often confused with blackberries and raspberries due to their similar aggregate fruit appearance. A primary distinction lies in their growth habit: mulberries grow on trees, which can reach significant heights, whereas blackberries and raspberries grow on thorny canes or bushes. When picked, a mulberry fruit will typically have a small stem segment attached, while blackberries leave a hollow core.
It is also important to differentiate mulberries from poisonous look-alikes, such as pokeweed berries. Pokeweed berries are smooth, round, and typically dark purple to black, growing in drooping clusters along a magenta-colored stem, rather than having the segmented, aggregate structure of mulberries. Unlike mulberries, pokeweed berries are highly toxic and should not be consumed. Always ensure positive identification before consuming any wild fruit.