Morus alba x rubra 'Silk Hope' Since mulberry leaves (from the imported M. alba variety only) are the sole food source of the silkworm, some American trees date to the early 1800's, when North Carolina was part of a thriving silk industry - which, unfortunately, was soon eclipsed by foreign competition. Silk Hope, a chance wild cross discovered by mulberry breeding legend A. J. Bullard, boasts the historic pedigree of M. alba crossed with our native M. rubra, and thrives better than most in the heat and humidity of the South. It bears 1½ inch long, sweet, black fruit that ripens for two months in early summer. Considered low chill, needing only 200-400 hours to bloom and set fruit. Provide consistent water during first two years of establishment. Reliably resistant to popcorn fungal infection. Cold Hardy to USDA Zone: 6 Mature Height: 20' Sun: Full Sun Ripening Time: June-August Pollination: Self-Fertile Click here to read our Mulberry Growing Guide
