Quick facts
| Arabic name | التوت |
|---|---|
| English name | Mulberry |
| Scientific name | Morus alba |
| Family | Mulberry family (Moraceae) |
| Plant type | Fast-growing deciduous tree |
| Height | 6 to 12 m |
| Water use | Medium |
Planting and harvest calendar
January to February
April to June
Times are general for the Saudi climate and may shift a few weeks by region: cooler in the highlands and the north, warmer on the coasts and in the south.
Description
Wide heart-shaped leaves, sometimes lobed. Small clustered berries like blackberries in white, red or black.
Where it grows
Grown in farms and homes in Hijaz, Al-Baha, Asir, Tabuk, Hail, Al-Qassim and Riyadh.
Soil
Grows in most soils and handles medium salt. Prefers deep soil.
Water and irrigation
Needs regular summer watering. Once big, it can handle short dry periods.
Climate and light
Handles heat and cold and likes full sun.
Propagation
Easy from hardwood cuttings, or from seed.
Benefits and uses
- Sweet berries rich in antioxidants
- Wide shade in summer
- Leaves feed silkworms
- Easy to grow and fast-growing
Drawbacks
- Fallen fruit stains floors and cars
- Strong roots can damage pavements
- Pollen of male trees causes allergies
Important notes
Plant it away from parking and pavements because of falling fruit and strong roots.
Sources and references
The information was collected and checked from these scientific sources:
- Plants of the World Online (POWO) - Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Morus alba
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF): Morus alba
- Wikipedia: Morus alba
- FAO Crop Calendar - Food and Agriculture Organization
- Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA)
- Photo source: Wikimedia Commons (free license)