Morus rubra – Red Mulberry

Red mulberries can be planted in partial to full sun or found in hardwood forests or valleys.

 

Red mulberry trees produce alternate heart-shaped leaves that are sometimes lobed in younger plants. The tree has a fast growth rate.

Native red mulberries can be confused for the invasive white mulberry (Morus alba). Red mulberry leaves are more wrinkled and have sharper teeth. Red mulberries are larger and curved. Red mulberries also ripen later than white mulberries.

 

The two species often hybridize in the wild, making identification more difficult.

Red mulberries are ripe when they easily fall off the branch. They have a sweet-tart flavor. They can be enjoyed raw, frozen, or turned into fruit leather or wine. Berries are anti-inflammatory and enhance immune function.

 

Leaves are also edible and are often turned into a tea in Korea for use in promoting healthy skin and regulating blood sugar.

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Written by Amy Demers, founder of the Connecticut Foraging Club. To learn more about foraging in Connecticut, check out our upcoming classes.