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Description
Morus Microphylla, commonly known as the Littleleaf Mulberry, is a small deciduous tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it can be found growing in canyons, rocky slopes, and desert washes. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a spread of about 15 feet. The leaves are small, ranging from 1 to 3 inches long, and are dark green with serrated edges. The tree produces small, edible fruits that are black when ripe and resemble blackberries. Morus Microphylla is valued for its drought tolerance and is commonly used in xeriscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Morus |
| Species | Microphylla |
Appearance
Morus Microphylla is a small, multi-branched tree with an irregularly shaped crown. The bark is light brown and becomes rough and furrowed with age. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate in shape, with serrated edges. They are dark green and have a glossy appearance. The tree produces small, greenish flowers in the spring that are followed by the edible fruits. The fruits are small, about 1/2 inch in diameter, and are black when ripe. They have a sweet flavor and are often used in jams and jellies.
Care Guide
Morus Microphylla is a hardy tree that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your Littleleaf Mulberry healthy:Water: Morus Microphylla is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it will benefit from occasional deep watering during periods of drought.Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization but will benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Littleleaf Mulberry prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Morus Microphylla is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Morus Microphylla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by scale insects or spider mites. These can be treated with a horticultural oil spray. The tree may also be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Morus Microphylla is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it can be found growing in canyons, rocky slopes, and desert washes. The tree is adapted to hot, dry conditions and is often used in xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Morus Microphylla be grown in containers?A: Yes, Littleleaf Mulberry can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the tree’s roots and the soil is well-drained.Q: How often should I water my Morus Microphylla?A: Morus Microphylla is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it will benefit from occasional deep watering during periods of drought.Q: What is the best time of year to plant Morus Microphylla?A: The best time to plant Littleleaf Mulberry is in the fall or early spring when the soil is moist and temperatures are cooler.Q: Can the fruits of Morus Microphylla be eaten?A: Yes, the fruits of Littleleaf Mulberry are edible and have a sweet flavor. They are often used in jams and jellies.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Moraceae family:
- Morus alba (White Mulberry)
- Morus rubra (Red Mulberry)
- Ficus carica (Common Fig)
- Broussonetia papyrifera (Paper Mulberry)
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/mulberry/growing-littleleaf-mulberry-trees.htm
- https://www.desertmuseum.org/pdfs/nhdmorusmicrophylla.pdf
- https://www.npsnm.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Morus-microphylla.pdf
