Kagayama Mulberry
morus kagayamae
Also known as: ["Japanese Mulberry","Kagayama's Mulberry"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Japan, valued for its ornamental foliage and fruit, though less common than other mulberry species.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Morus |
| Botanical Name: | Morus kagayamae |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter like compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent leaf burn; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers temperate conditions, ideal range 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent indoor temperatures if grown indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on growth rate.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or hardwood cuttings in late winter or early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 6–8 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late winter or early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or coarse sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a bud or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/diseased wood first, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, inspect roots, water after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move indoors; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMorus kagayamae is generally considered non-toxic to cats. The berries and leaves do not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a significant health risk to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMorus kagayamae is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. The berries and leaves do not contain known toxic compounds that would pose a significant health risk to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Morus kagayamae may cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in large quantities due to their high sugar content and potential for fermentation. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Morus kagayamae edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and can be consumed fresh or used in culinary preparations.
Q: How tall does Morus kagayamae grow?
A: It typically grows to a height of 10-15 meters (30-50 feet) under optimal conditions.
Q: Does Morus kagayamae attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and fruit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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