Shahtoot Mulberry (Morus alba) - Air Layer - LIVE PLANT

Plant Insights and Care

Shahtoot Mulberry (Morus alba – long-fruited cultivar), also known as King Mulberry or Pakistani Mulberry, is a highly productive, fast-growing tree famous for its extra-long, sweet berries. This variety produces fruits typically 8–12 cm long, far longer than Thai dwarf mulberries. It is exceptionally well-suited to hot climates, making it one of the easiest and most rewarding fruit trees to grow in the UAE.

Shahtoot grows 6–10 meters tall with a spreading canopy, though it can be kept smaller with pruning. It thrives in full sun and tolerates intense desert heat extremely well once established. Young trees benefit from regular irrigation and mulching to protect the root zone from extreme temperatures.

The tree grows well in sandy or loamy soil, making it ideal for the UAE’s natural soil when improved with compost. It prefers a pH of 6.0–7.5. Water deeply 2–3 times per week during hot months, reducing in winter. Fertilize every 6–8 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fruit tree fertilizer. Prune during dormancy (winter) to shape the canopy, encourage new shoots, and boost fruiting.

Key Points:

• Origin: China; widely cultivated across Asia and the Middle East.

• Climate: Excellent heat tolerance; ideal for desert conditions.

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best fruit sweetness and production.

• Watering: Deep, regular watering; reduce in winter.

• Soil: Sandy or loamy soil enriched with compost; pH 6.0–7.5.

• Fertilization: Balanced feeding every 6–8 weeks.

• Pruning: Winter pruning to encourage vigorous new fruiting wood.

• Growth Rate: Fast; fruits in 1 year.

Fruit Profile

Shahtoot mulberries are famous for their long, slender, seed-soft fruits that can reach up to 12 cm. The fruits transition from pale green to white or pinkish-white and finally to deep red or black-purple when fully ripe (depending on the specific clone). The fully ripe fruits are sweet, juicy, and low-acid, making them excellent for fresh eating.

The berries are soft and delicate, with a melt-in-the-mouth texture and a honey-like sweetness that intensifies in hot weather. They are also rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Dive into the facts:

• Taste: Sweet, juicy, mild acidity; honey-like when fully ripe.

• Appearance: Extra-long berries up to 12 cm; colors range from white/pink to deep purple depending on clone.

• Fun Fact: Shahtoot is so productive in warm climates that mature trees can yield several kilograms of fruit every few days during peak season.