DAVIDSON TREASURE TREES
#029 Red Mulberry
(Morus rubra)
This tree is best accessed through Jackson Street as it is located on the west side of the Copeland House property. It sits at the right end of a row of trees adjacent to the parking lot for the Belk Visual Arts Center.
Statistics (2021)
- Circumference (In.): 123″
- Height (Ft.): 55′
- Avg. Crown Spread (Ft.): 22′
- Diameter Breast Height (In.): 34″
- Total Points: 186
More Information
- Year Recognized: 2021
- Current condition: Fair
- Property Type: Private
- Ecological Value: The tree grows throughout North Carolina, usually in the rich, red soils of lower and middle parts of the state, but it is found in all regions. There are no other native species of mulberry in the state. The fruit resembles a blackberry and if eaten when unripe, is poisonous as is the milky white sap that all parts of the tree produce. Fruits that are eaten when ripe are harmless. The fruits are relished by birds but dropped fruit can cause maintenance issues such as staining concrete walkways, patios, and cars, so be aware of where the canopy will extend when choosing the location to plant one of these trees.
