Mulberries are the deciduous trees native to the warm temperate and subtropical forests. They are found in abundance in several countries in Asia, Europe, Africa and America. Even though mulberry trees are virtually grown in every state of the United States, except for Nevada and Alaska, many people are still ignorant about various mulberry tree facts, which make these trees so desirable.
History of Mulberry Trees
The history of mulberry trees is as fascinating as their facts. These tree species have been known to mankind since thousands of years. In China, the leaves of these trees are used to feed the silkworms, in order to enhance silk production. Back in the 17th century, the Romans used these leaves to treat various diseases. The importance of these trees to various ancient civilizations can be acknowledged from the fact that these trees became a part of the ancient folklore and myths of the ancient times. According to one such folklore from Germany, the fruits of mulberry trees are associated with evil, as it was believed that the devil uses the roots of this tree to polish his boots.
Mulberry Tree Identification
Although, there are quite a few known species of mulberry tree, the two most popular species are the native red mulberry and the Asian white mulberry. The red mulberry tree bark is reddish brown in color, while the white mulberry tree bark is ochre-gray in color. The bark of both of these species has a rough surface, with vertical cracks, and oval shaped alternate leaves, approximately 2-6 inches long. The red mulberry tree can grow to a height of around 65 feet, while the Asian white mulberry attains a maximum height of 40 feet.
Mulberry Tree Fruits
Mulberries are an inch long, berry-like fruits of any of the various mulberry tree species. In most of these species, the color of the raw fruit varies from white to green or pale yellow, and eventually, turns to red, dark purple or black when they ripen. These edible fruits with their sweet flavor, are delicacies among humans and birds alike. More importantly, these trees have a longer growing season, which in turn, ensures abundant crop.
Mulberry Tree Care
One of the most important mulberry tree facts is that they grow very fast when they are young but eventually, the rate of growth slows down considerably. The height of the tree which seldom exceeds 50 to 70 feet, depends on which species of mulberry tree it is. These trees require ample space and sunlight to grow, and hence, it is wiser to plant them at least 15 to 20 feet apart. These trees grow well in warm, well-drained loamy soil. If you are planning to grow mulberry trees for their delicious fruits, you will have to be patient, as it will take at least 10 years for the trees to bear fruits. Like the other deciduous tree types, even mulberries require regular pruning. Mulberry tree pruning is best done following the growing season, however, if you think the foliage has thickened considerably, and may damage the tree, you can prune it in winter as well.
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