953-1 Red Mulberry (Packed In Units of 25 Seedlings)

Red mulberry: (Morus rubra) is a native North American tree known for its sweet, dark fruit, which is often used in pies, jams, and beverages. This medium-sized tree can reach up to 60 feet tall and has rough, lobed leaves. While the ripe fruits are delicious and safe to eat, the unripe fruit and other parts of the tree contain a milky sap that can cause digestive issues if consumed. The fruit resembles blackberries, starting as red and ripening to a purplish-black hue, with an accompanying laxative effect when eaten in excess. Red mulberry thrives in moist woods, lowlands, parks, and yards, and its thin bark ranges from dark brown to gray with an orange tint. Though its wood is occasionally used for fence posts and furniture, it is not commonly harvested This species plays a critical role in the ecosystem, serving as a food source for various wildlife, including birds and squirrels, and it is an important host plant for certain butterflies. Additionally, only male trees produce pollen, which can trigger allergies in sensitive individuals, while female trees have lower allergy potential. Unfortunately, red mulberry is considered endangered in some regions like Massachusetts, primarily due to hybridization with non-native invasive white mulberry. The tree flourishes in rich, moist, well-drained soil in full sun and should be pruned in late fall or winter to prevent sap bleeding.