Hortiforum

General Info – Native Mulberry, False Stinger, White Mulberry, White Nettle

The Native Mulberry is the perfect choice for gardeners looking to attract native wildlife and who don’t mind sharing their harvest. This plant produces succulent, soft, small white fruits, similar in appearance to the Mulberry (Morus spp.). Although a member of the Urticaceae family—commonly known as the Nettle family—this plant is fortunately stingless. The fruits have a sweet, delicate flavour, though it can vary, much like regular Mulberries. The seeds are located on the outside of the fruit, similar to Strawberries. The ripe fruits are very soft to the touch and will fall off when fully ripe, but should be picked carefully to avoid squishing before being enjoyed fresh. Native Mulberry typically ripens during the cooler months, from May to August.
Native to the subtropical rainforests of South East Queensland and Northern NSW, the Native Mulberry can also be found on islands and along the margins of rainforests. Both partial shade and full sun are suitable for this plant, though it may not produce abundant fruit in too much shade. Native Mulberry does not tolerate dry spells or drought well, and it thrives when kept moist throughout the year. Regular mulching is highly beneficial in maintaining soil moisture. If the plant is affected by drought, it will recover more effectively with a hard pruning. Native Mulberries are dioecious, meaning that individual plants produce either male or female flowers. While a female plant can bear edible fruit on its own, a male plant is needed to produce fruit with viable seeds.
Native Mulberries are superb for wildlife-friendly gardens, attracting a variety of birds, insects, lizards, and frogs, and serving as a host plant for many butterfly species. They typically grow to a height of 3-8 metres, but can be pruned to maintain shape and keep them at a manageable size. Flowering occurs from summer to autumn, with blooms similar in appearance to those of the Mulberry. As fast-growing plants, Native Mulberries are often considered pioneer species and are ideal for creating natural screens.

Plant Profile/Properties