Photo gallery

  • Morus nigra in full summer foliage on the Barcham Trees nursery
  • Row of medium-size Morus nigra trees at Barcham Trees nursery
  • A mature specimen of Morus nigra in a parkland environment
  • Morus nigra fruit on the nursery
  • Carbon Rating
  • Carbon Rating

Black Mulberry

Morus nigra

Out of stock

Our new stock is growing! New stock will be available 1st September 2025.

About this product

Morus nigra, also known as Black Mulberry, is a pretty, deciduous tree that is native to South Western Asia, where it has been cultivated for a very long time.

The Black Mulberry was brought to Britain by the Romans, after which it was widely imported and planted by James I, who was motivated to establish a silk industry. Later, it was realised that silkworms only feed on the White Mulberry (Morus alba). As such, a legacy of old Black Mulberry remains in historic landscapes and gardens throughout Britain.

Morus nigra has very bright green leaves that are heart-shaped and have a serrated-looking edge to them. The gnarly bark gives even younger trees an old and historic appearance. 

The fruits emerge throughout the summer and ripen to deep purple and loganberry-like at the end of this period.

As a mature tree, the Black Mulberry has a spreading, rounded, almost domed shape, which gives it broad architectural appeal.

This tree will tolerate most soil conditions, preferring lighter, well-drained soil. 

It is a highly long-lived specimen that will spread almost as wide as it grows tall. 

It is an excellent addition to a garden, bringing a catalogue of interest all year round, including its chequered historic tale.

We also offer a multi-stemmed Morus nigra, which is well-suited for use as natural privacy screens or to add a sense of density to planting schemes.

Mature Height: 3-7m

Specifications

Common names
Black Mulberry
Height of tree
3-7m
Soil type
Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types
Shape
Rounded
Foliage Colour
Green
Information Flags
Good for bees, Bark interest
Looks good in
Summer
Location
Garden, Parkland
Genus
Morus