Black Mulberry (Morus nigra)

 

Black Mulberry

With its growth height of up to twelve meters, the Black Mulberry (Morus nigra) is a conspicuous tree; the species belongs to the Mulberry family (Moraceae). The flowers (catkins) grow on the branches. After fertilization, very sweet and tasty fruits (berries) appear. They turn dark red to black when they are ripe. Many birds love to eat them.

This plant species is native to western Asia. It was introduced to Europe by humans a long time ago. It is more common in the Mediterranean region than in Central Europe. In Germany, the Black Mulberry is usually found in parks or gardens; it is virtually absent in the wild.

Ripe fruits can be picked in summer and autumn. They are extremely juicy, which should be taken into account when picking because their juice stains very strongly. Birds who eat black mulberries are often stained dark red to purple on the beak and sometimes in their face, too. Sometimes the discolourations are so persistent that they only disappear after a few days or even with the next moult.

You can find more photos of this species on NABU-naturgucker.de (German website, but also available in English language).