Illinois Everbearing Mulberry Tree - Live Plants in 3 Inch Growers Pots - Morus Alba x Rubra - Edible Fruit Bearing Tree for The Patio and Garden

The Illinois Everbearing Mulberry Tree (Morus alba x rubra) is a remarkable hybrid prized for its resilience, long fruiting season, and vigorous growth. Known for producing rich, dark purple to nearly black berries, this tree delights growers with an abundant harvest stretching from late spring through summer. Each berry resembles a slender blackberry, both in appearance and flavor, with a juicy sweetness balanced by a mild tartness. This variety was developed to thrive in a wide range of climates and is celebrated for its adaptability, making it a favorite among home gardeners and orchard growers alike.

Beyond its fruiting capacity, the Illinois Everbearing Mulberry Tree is equally valued as a striking landscape specimen. Mature trees can grow to impressive heights with a broad, rounded canopy, offering shade and visual appeal in addition to harvests. Its heart-shaped leaves are lush green during the growing season, creating a dense cover that transitions to golden tones in autumn. This tree is known for its longevity, often living for decades while maintaining productivity. Whether planted as a centerpiece in the garden or integrated into a food forest, it combines beauty, utility, and ease of care for years of enjoyment.

Physical Characteristics: Mature trees often reach 30 to 35 feet in height with a broad canopy that can span nearly as wide, creating an attractive shade tree in addition to its fruiting qualities. Its foliage is vibrant and heart-shaped, turning golden in the fall. The tree produces elongated, dark-colored berries with rich flavor throughout the summer season.Sunlight Requirements: This mulberry thrives best in full sun, where it can produce the highest yields of fruit. Providing at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily ensures optimal growth, strong branching, and maximum berry production. While it can tolerate light shade, reduced sun may limit both the quantity and quality of harvests.Watering Guidelines: Once established, the Illinois Everbearing Mulberry demonstrates notable drought tolerance, but it still performs best with consistent watering. Deep, infrequent soakings encourage a strong root system and sustained fruit set. Young trees should be watered regularly to help them establish before relying on natural rainfall.Soil Preferences: Adaptable to a wide variety of soils, this mulberry grows well in loamy, sandy, or clay-based ground provided it is well-draining. It flourishes in slightly acidic to neutral pH ranges. Good drainage is key to preventing waterlogged roots, and mulching around the base helps conserve moisture while moderating soil temperature.Growth Rate and Maintenance: The Illinois Everbearing Mulberry is known for its rapid growth, often adding several feet per year during early development. Minimal pruning is required, typically limited to shaping or removing crossing branches. Its fast growth habit makes it an excellent choice for those seeking both quick shade and early fruit production.