Morus Cathayana

Description

Morus Cathayana, commonly known as the Chinese mulberry, is a deciduous tree native to the eastern regions of Asia. It belongs to the Moraceae family and is widely cultivated for its edible and medicinal properties. The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height and has a broad, spreading crown. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and heart-shaped, with serrated margins. The flowers of Morus Cathayana are small and greenish, and the fruit is a dark red or blackberry-like aggregate.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Chinese mulberry has a distinctive appearance with its rough, grayish-brown bark and broad, spreading crown. Its leaves are heart-shaped, with serrated margins, and can grow up to 20 cm in length. The tree produces small, greenish flowers, and the fruit is a dark red or blackberry-like aggregate, which is sweet and edible.

Care Guide

Morus Cathayana is generally easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your Chinese mulberry:

• Water: Chinese mulberries prefer moist but well-drained soil. Water your tree regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in early spring to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
• Soil: Chinese mulberries prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
• Sunlight: Chinese mulberries prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Chinese mulberries can grow in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Chinese mulberries are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to the following:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Scale insects: These pests can cause leaf yellowing and sticky honeydew on the leaves. Control with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
• Canker: This fungal disease can cause sunken lesions on the bark and cankers on the branches. Control with pruning and fungicides.

Habitat

Chinese mulberries are native to eastern Asia and are widely cultivated in China, Korea, and Japan. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and gardens. The trees prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil and full sun or partial shade.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Chinese mulberries grow in containers?

A: Yes, Chinese mulberries can be grown in containers as long as they have enough room to grow and receive adequate sunlight and water.

Q: How do I prune my Chinese mulberry tree?

A: Prune your Chinese mulberry tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thin out any crowded or crossing branches to promote good air circulation and light penetration.

Q: How do I propagate Chinese mulberries?

A: Chinese mulberries can be propagated by hardwood cuttings taken in late winter or early spring. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in a warm, bright location until they root.

Q: What are some uses for Chinese mulberries?

A: Chinese mulberries are used for a variety of purposes, including food, medicine, and dye. The fruit is sweet and edible and can be used in jams, jellies, and desserts. The leaves and bark have medicinal properties and are used to treat a variety of ailments, including high blood pressure and diabetes.

Related Plants

• Morus alba (white mulberry)
• Morus nigra (black mulberry)
• Morus rubra (red mulberry)

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Morus cathayana. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a866
• North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Morus cathayana. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/morus-cathayana/
• University of Connecticut. (n.d.). Morus cathayana. Retrieved from https://hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=305