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Description
Morus Australis, also known as the Southern Mulberry Tree, is a deciduous tree that is native to Australia. It is a member of the Moraceae family and is closely related to the more commonly known Morus alba, or White Mulberry. The tree can reach a height of up to 10 meters and has a spreading, rounded crown. The leaves of the Morus Australis are large and heart-shaped, with a dark green color and a rough texture. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by clusters of small, edible fruits that ripen in the summer. The fruits are sweet and juicy, and are often used for making jams and preserves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Morus |
Appearance
The Morus Australis is a beautiful tree that can add a touch of elegance to any landscape. It has a thick, gray-brown bark that is deeply furrowed, giving it a rugged appearance. The tree’s leaves are large and heart-shaped, with a rough texture and a dark green color. In the autumn, the leaves turn a bright yellow before falling off. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring that are followed by clusters of small, edible fruits that are about 1.5cm in diameter. The fruits are initially green but turn dark purple when they are ripe. They are sweet and juicy, with a flavor that is similar to that of blackberries.
Care Guide
The Morus Australis is a relatively easy tree to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure that it stays healthy and produces an abundant crop of fruit. Water: The tree should be watered regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. It prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization: The tree should be fertilized once a year in the early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Soil: The Morus Australis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but does best in soil that is slightly acidic. Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Hardiness Zones: The Morus Australis is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Morus Australis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but there are a few that can cause problems. Pests: The most common pests that affect the tree are aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Diseases: The most common diseases that affect the tree are powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be controlled with fungicides, but prevention is the best approach.
Habitat
The Morus Australis is native to Australia and is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and along streams and rivers. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot and dry to cool and moist.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the fruits of the Morus Australis be eaten raw?
A: Yes, the fruits are sweet and juicy and can be eaten raw, but they are also commonly used for making jams, jellies, and preserves. Q: Is the Morus Australis a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, the tree is relatively fast-growing and can reach a height of up to 10 meters in just a few years. Q: Does the Morus Australis require pruning?
A: Yes, the tree should be pruned in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased wood and to shape the tree. Q: Is the Morus Australis tolerant of drought?
A: No, the tree prefers moist soil and is not tolerant of prolonged periods of drought.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Morus genus:
- Morus alba (White Mulberry)
- Morus nigra (Black Mulberry)
- Morus rubra (Red Mulberry)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/mulberry/southern-mulberry-trees.htm
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Morus_australis.html
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/trees-shrubs-vines/trees/mulberry-tree/
