Growing Guide: Mulberry Trees
Growing Tips
Plant Shangri-La Mulberry in full sun and provide well-draining soil. This very fast-growing mulberry is adaptable and has low to moderate water needs once established. Water regularly while young, then allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Shangri-La can reach 10–25 ft. tall but responds well to pruning and can be maintained in a shrub form. It is deciduous and fruits on new growth, so prune as needed to manage size and encourage productive new branches. Harvest the berries when fully ripe for the sweetest flavor. With proper care, plants can begin fruiting within 1–2 years of planting.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Morus |
| Common Names | Shangri-La Mulberry, Black Mulberry |
| Family | Moraceae (Mulberry Family) |
| Origin | Hybrid cultivar developed in Florida |
| Plant Type | Fruiting Tree |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Food Forest Layer | Canopy / Mid-Story Layer |
| Mature Size | 10–25 ft. tall; can be pruned to shrub form |
| Light | Full Sun |
| Water Needs | Low to Moderate |
| Harvest Season | Spring; long fruiting season |
| Time to Fruit | 1–2 years from planting |
| Self-Fertile | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Very Fast |
| Zones | USDA Zones 7–10 |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Cuttings, Grafted |
| Seasonal Characteristics | Deciduous; fruits on new growth |
