Morus alba x rubra 'Early Bird'

Early Bird Mulberry (Morus alba x rubra 'Early Bird') is prized for its exceptionally early ripening and beautiful, jet-black fruit. This highly productive cultivar - aptly named Early Bird - is ready to harvest as early as June. Plant it alongside Illinois Everbearing to enjoy fresh mulberries all season long.

The dark fruit measures about 4 cm (1.5 in) in length and resembles a blackberry. For the best flavor, wait until the berries reach their deepest, darkest color before harvesting. The fruit is sweet, rich, and juicy, similar to a blackberry but softer and with few to no seeds. It is excellent for fresh eating and is often used as a topping for yogurt, cereal, and ice cream, as well as in jams, sauces, and baked goods. Birds - and some backyard mammals - will also be drawn to the irresistible fruit.

A popular cold-hardy cultivar (Zone 4b: −31.5 °C), Early Bird Mulberry tree has a spreading habit and can reach up to 6 m (20 ft) tall, though it can easily be kept smaller with pruning. Prune Early Bird Mulberry tree during dormancy to avoid sap bleeding.

The inconspicuous yellow-green male and female flowers are self-fertile, and Early Bird Mulberry typically begins bearing fruit in its second or third year after planting. This cultivar also features large, dark green foliage, making it a handsome ornamental addition to the landscape.

Easy to grow, Morus alba x rubra 'Early Bird' prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Once established, it becomes relatively drought tolerant. Mulberries are generally free from serious pests and diseases.