How to Grow Texas Everbearing Mulberry
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Texas Everbearing Mulberry
Morus rubra var. texana
treeTexas Everbearing is a cultivar of the native Red Mulberry that produces sweet, dark berries continuously from late spring through fall. This deciduous tree is prized for its extended fruiting season, cold hardiness, and ability to thrive in hot, dry climates. It grows 20-30 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for larger landscapes and small orchards.
When should you plant Texas Everbearing Mulberry in your zone?
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Example Texas Everbearing Mulberry timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Texas Everbearing Mulberry
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Texas Everbearing Mulberry
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Texas Everbearing Mulberry dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9, with best production in zones 6-8
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Get my Texas Everbearing Mulberry timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Year 1)
Spring through fall of first yearYoung tree with developing root system and modest branch structure
Water regularly to establish roots. Mulch heavily around base. Minimal pruning needed except to remove damaged branches. Support with stake if necessary in windy areas.
Young Growth (Years 1-2)
Months 6-24 after plantingTree developing main scaffold branches and filling out canopy
Continue regular watering during dry periods. Begin light pruning to shape canopy and remove crossing branches. Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Early Fruiting (Year 2-3)
Late spring through early summerTree begins producing scattered flowers and fruit clusters
Increase watering during fruit development. Remove any competing branches. Light fruiting is normal; don't expect heavy yield yet.
Mature Production (Year 3+)
May through OctoberEstablished tree producing abundant berries from late spring through fall in multiple flushes
Water consistently during dry spells to support continuous fruiting. Prune in late winter to maintain open canopy structure and promote air circulation. Fertilize sparingly—excess nitrogen reduces fruiting.
Dormancy (Late Fall-Winter)
November through MarchTree loses all leaves and enters period of rest
No watering needed unless exceptional drought. Prune to remove dead wood and shape canopy during dormancy. Clean up fallen fruit.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick early morning; use neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators like birds
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Spray with horticultural oil in early spring; maintain good air circulation; encourage beneficial insects
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Remove fallen fruit regularly; harvest ripe berries promptly; use fruit traps if population is heavy
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Apply dormant oil spray in late winter; prune out heavily infested branches; encourage natural predators
Uses
Fresh eating and preserves
CulinaryEat berries fresh straight from the tree, or use them to make jams, jellies, and syrups. The sweet flavor is excellent in pies and desserts. [source]
Dried fruit and tea
CulinaryDry berries for use in trail mix, baking, or herbal tea blends. Mulberry leaves can also be dried and steeped for a mild, slightly sweet tea. [source]
Traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalMulberry berries and leaves have been used in traditional medicine for immune support and to promote relaxation. The fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. [source]
Bird and pollinator habitat
WildlifeThe abundant fruit feed birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. The tree attracts pollinators and beneficial insects throughout the growing season. [source]
Natural dye
HouseholdMulberry juice can be used as a natural dye for textiles and crafts, producing deep purple and blue hues. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Berries are ready to harvest when fully dark purple-black and fall easily from the tree when gently shaken. Spread a cloth under the tree and shake branches; berries will drop into the cloth. Harvest every few days as berries ripen continuously. Eat fresh immediately or freeze for later use. Peak harvest is typically June-August, with secondary flushes through fall.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Texas Everbearing earned its name because it produces berries nearly continuously from late spring through fall, unlike single-season mulberries.
- 🌱 Mulberry trees are extremely long-lived and can produce fruit for 50+ years, making them a multi-generational investment.
- 🌱 A mature mulberry tree can produce 50-100 pounds of berries per year in ideal conditions, though Texas Everbearing typically yields 20-40 pounds annually.
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