Morus

Morus is a genus of flowering plants in the mulberry family Moraceae. It comprises several species, most notably Morus alba (white mulberry), Morus rubra (red mulberry), and Morus nigra (black mulberry). The genus is native to warm temperate regions of Asia but has been cultivated and naturalized in many parts of the world. The name Morus is the Latin word for mulberry.

Description: Mulberries are deciduous trees or large shrubs, typically reaching 5–15 meters in height. Leaves are alternate and simple, often lobed in some species and with serrated margins. Flowers are small and inconspicuous, produced in dense catkins. The fruit is a multiple fruit formed from many small drupes, usually ranging in color from pale white or pink to red, purple, or black, depending on the species and cultivar. Fruits ripen in summer and are generally sweet, though varieties may vary in flavor.

Uses and ecology: The leaves of Morus alba are the primary diet of domesticated silkworms (Bombyx mori) in sericulture. Fruits are edible and widely eaten fresh or processed into jams, wines, or teas. Wood is hard and used for furniture and utensils. The trees tolerate a wide range of soils and climates but prefer well-drained sites and full sun. Morus can be cultivated ornamentally in urban and rural settings; in some regions, introduced species such as M. alba have become naturalized and can compete with native vegetation. They also face pests and diseases including leaf spots, powdery mildew, and scale insects.