'Early Bird' Mulberry

The Early Bird Mulberry is prized as one of the very first fruits to ripen each year, often ready by late May in mild climates. This compact cultivar extends the early summer fruit season with heavy crops over several weeks.

The fruits are dark purple-black when fully ripe, with a flavour that is sweet, juicy, and reminiscent of blackberries — but softer and with fewer seeds. Their rich taste makes them outstanding for fresh eating, while also lending themselves beautifully to drying, jams, sauces, baked goods, and even winemaking.

Hardy in Zones 6–9, Early Bird grows to about 15-20 feet tall and 12-15 feet wide, but can be kept smaller with pruning. It’s also possible to grow it in a large container, making it a versatile choice for gardeners with limited space.

Early-fruiting, highly productive, and bearing at a young age (often within 1–2 years of planting), Early Bird is the perfect mulberry for those who want a delicious harvest at the very start of summer.

Common names: Early Bird Mulberry

Edible: Fruit, and leaves (tea)
Harvest timing: Late May - June 

Scientific name: Morus alba 'Early Bird'
Light requirements: Full sun (6+ hours). Tolerates part shade, but yields decrease.
Full-grown size: 15-20' tall x 12-15' wide (smaller with pruning)
Hardiness: Zone 6
Pollination: Self-fertile
Wildlife: Fruit are attractive to birds.
Origin: Native to China.
Noteworthy: One of the earliest fruits to ripen each year.