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Description
The Black Mulberry 'Wellington' is a fruit tree appreciated for its fleshy, sweet, black fruits, highly valued in cooking and for direct consumption. This cultivar stands out for its abundant and regular production, harmonious shape, and robustness. It is also used as an ornamental tree for its dense foliage and elegant appearance.
Geographical Origin: Native to Western Asia and the Middle East, the black mulberry has become naturalized in several temperate regions. The 'Wellington' cultivar is a modern horticultural selection resulting from a cross between Morus rubra and Morus alba.
Botanical Family: Moraceae
Notable Features: This cultivar is known for producing larger and sweeter fruits than the typical variety. It has been selected for its more compact and regular shape, as well as its better disease resistance.
Adult Height: 8 to 10 meters
Adult Width: 5 to 7 meters
Habit (General Shape): Rounded and dense habit, slightly spreading, with well-branched limbs, more compact than the typical variety.
Bark: Dark brown, rough, and fissured bark, characteristic of black mulberries.
Foliage: Deciduous leaves up to 20 cm, broad, oval to lobed, glossy dark green, turning slightly yellow-red in autumn.
Growth: Moderate to rapid growth, depending on conditions.
Hardiness: Resistant to temperatures down to -25°C, suitable for temperate climates.
Flowering Period: Spring, April-May.
Flower Description: Small, inconspicuous flowers grouped in catkins, not particularly ornamental.
Fruits: Fleshy, sweet, elongated black berries harvested in summer (July-August). The 'Wellington' cultivar produces larger and more abundant fruits.
Pollinator and Wildlife Attraction: Flowers modestly attract some pollinators, while fruits are appreciated by birds, contributing to local biodiversity.
Ideal Exposure: Full sun to light partial shade for optimal fruiting.
Suitable Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile soil, fresh to moderately moist, tolerates various soils (slightly acidic to neutral).
Soil Preparation Tips: Loosen the soil deeply, incorporate compost or organic matter to enrich the soil.
Spacing Between Plants: 5 to 6 meters to allow optimal development of the rounded habit.
Soil Nature: Neutral to slightly acidic, fresh, not waterlogged, ideally well-drained.
Water Needs at Planting: Regular watering to promote rooting.
Water Needs at Maturity: Moderately drought-resistant, but appreciates watering during hot periods to optimize fruit quality.
When and How to Prune: Maintenance pruning in winter to remove dead wood and poorly oriented branches.
Structure, Maintenance: Favour light pruning to maintain natural shape and maximize fruit production.
Possible Propagation Methods: Propagation by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer, layering, or grafting onto vigorous rootstock.
Ideal Placement for the Plant: As a standalone or in a small orchard, on a lawn or open area to showcase its shape and fruiting.
Recommended Plant Associations: Berry shrubs (currant, blackcurrant), aromatic plants (mint, thyme), honey plants (lavender, sage).
The black mulberry has traditionally been used for the production of fresh fruits, jams, and syrups. Its leaves are also the food for silkworms. The more recent 'Wellington' cultivar retains this heritage while improving fruit quality for contemporary use.
Potential Sensitivities: May be sensitive to sooty mold, rust, and certain aphids.
Natural Prevention Tips: Maintain good air circulation through proper pruning, regularly monitor for infestations, and promote biodiversity for natural balance.
For optimal development, prefer a sunny exposure, avoid heavy soils, prune lightly to aerate the structure, and associate with plants attracting pollinators to support flowering.
Morus nigra 'Wellington' is an interesting fruit tree, combining elegant shape, generous fruiting, and tasty fruits. Suitable for local gardens, it offers both ecological interest through its fruits attracting wildlife and aesthetic interest with its dense and changing foliage. Its hardiness and ease of maintenance make it an excellent choice for fruit and characterful plant enthusiasts.
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