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Cultivar Reference  ›  Mulberry  ›  Pakistan Mulberry

Pakistan Mulberry

Morus alba

Matt's 9b field note

“'Probably the most common and well-known mulberry.' Long, sweet fruit.”

Background

A long-fruited selection originating in Pakistan — 'probably the most common and well-known mulberry,' per Matt. Trade taxonomy is muddled: it is commonly labeled Morus alba, UF/IFAS describes 'Pakistan' as a Morus rubra selection with 2.5-3.5 inch ruby-red fruit, and Raintree Nursery sells it as Morus macroura 'Pakistan' from Islamabad. It is recommended for the deep South and mild-winter areas and is reliably resistant to popcorn disease in hot, humid climates. (Also called Giant Fruit Mulberry.) The UA arboretum notes white mulberry is native to northern China and was brought to America before the Revolution in a failed bid to support a silkworm industry.

Distinguishing traits

Exceptionally long berries, up to 3-4.5 inches, ripening ruby-red to deep purple-black. Sweet and juicy with minimal tartness; the slightly thicker skin keeps the inky juice off fingers. Fast-growing, spreading, vigorous tree with large heart-shaped leaves; can reach 30-40 ft unpruned. Self-fertile. Ripens over a long season. The UA arboretum describes white mulberry as a fast-growing deciduous shade tree reaching 20-50 feet.

Desert care — zone 9b

Chill hours
About 200 hours (per Raintree Nursery)
Cold hardiness
USDA zone 8b (about 15°F); may suffer cold damage in the first years if hit by late freezes — protect young trees during establishment.
Heat tolerance
Explicitly favored for areas with long, hot, humid summers; handles Arizona heat and alkaline, rocky caliche soil well with steady deep watering.
Water
Water consistently the first two years of establishment; somewhat drought tolerant once established but needs water in dry seasons or fruit drops before ripening. The UA arboretum rates water use as low.
Soil
Adaptable, including alkaline and rocky desert soils; pushes roots past caliche with deep watering. Well-drained preferred.
Sun exposure
Full sun for best fruiting.

Where to buy

  • Raintree Nursery
  • Dave Wilson Nursery

Sources