Mulberry 'Skinner' (Morus macroura var. Skinner)
Regular price $129.95Velvet-Sweet Fruit on Cascading Branches
Mulberry ‘Skinner’ (Morus macroura var. Skinner) is a striking, fast-growing fruit tree celebrated for its long, gracefully drooping berries that can stretch several inches in length. The fruits ripen from soft green to blushed rose, then deepen into wine-red or dusky purple, each one tender, aromatic, and meltingly sweet. Its canopy forms a loose, elegant dome of finely serrated, satin-green leaves that shimmer in warm light. ‘Skinner’ is treasured for its rarity, exceptional flavor, and the ornamental drama of its elongated fruits—one of the most distinctive mulberries in cultivation. As noted by Craig (Florida Fruit Geek) "The flavor is excellent, sweet & fruity, kind of a fig-raspberry taste."
Beyond its visual appeal, ‘Skinner’ offers dependable productivity and gentle ease of care. The fruits are beloved for fresh eating and preserve beautifully into syrups, jams, and desserts. Vigorous yet manageable, this mulberry quickly settles into the landscape, offering both shade and a steady supply of tender, velvety fruit. Its combination of elegance and abundance makes it a standout choice for edible gardens, food forests, and backyard growers seeking something truly special.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Long-fruited mulberries have held culinary and medicinal importance across South and Southeast Asia for centuries. In their native regions, the fruits are enjoyed fresh during the short harvest window or transformed into cooling drinks, sweet syrups, and traditional confections. Mulberry leaves and bark have long been used in herbal tonics and cottage crafts, while the wood has served artisans in carving and toolmaking. These trees are woven into the seasonal rhythms of the communities that tend them—offering nourishment, materials, shade, and symbolism. ‘Skinner,’ a cultivated form of this lineage, connects today’s growers to a deep heritage of fruit growing, craftwork, and celebration centered around the mulberry’s generous nature.
Grow Mulberry ‘Skinner’ in full sun for maximum fruiting and strongest coloration. It performs best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil, though it tolerates sandy or loamy conditions readily. Provide consistent moisture during establishment, then water deeply during dry spells; steady hydration supports fuller, juicier fruit. Protect young trees from frost, as this species prefers warm to subtropical climates and may experience damage below freezing. Feed lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer or compost to encourage vigorous new growth. Prune after harvest to shape the canopy and maintain a manageable size. While suitable for large containers, it thrives most freely when planted in-ground. Fast-growing and wind-sensitive in exposed areas, it benefits from some shelter. Expect fruit as early as 1–3 years after planting in favorable conditions.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Morus macroura var. Skinner |
| Common Names | Himalayan Mulberry, Long Mulberry, Shahtoot Mulberry, Skinner Mulberry |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Origin | Himalayan foothills; South and Southeast Asia |
| Plant Type | Deciduous fruit tree |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Mature Size | 20–30 ft × 15–25 ft (variable by climate and pruning) |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Soil | Well-drained, moderately fertile soil |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Flower Color | Pale green to creamy white |
| USDA Zones | 8–11 (location-dependent) |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Graft |
| Seasonal Traits | Deciduous |
| Time to Harvest | 1–3 years after planting |
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