Description
Pipturus argenteus, commonly known as Native Mulberry or White Mulberry, is a fast-growing Australian rainforest plant with attractive foliage and delicious edible fruit. It is an excellent choice for gardeners wanting to combine native food production with wildlife value. Growing as a large shrub or small tree, Native Mulberry can reach approximately 3–8m high × 3–5m wide in garden conditions. The leaves are deep green above with a distinctive silvery-white, hairy underside, giving the plant an attractive two-tone appearance. Small white, mulberry-like fruits develop on female plants. The fruit is soft, juicy and sweet with a delicate flavour, although the berries can be very soft when fully ripe. Australian Bush Tucker Native Mulberry produces edible white fruits that can be eaten fresh from the plant. The berries are sweet and delicate and are one of the most appealing edible features of this Australian native. Fruit generally develops after flowering, with ripening occurring during the cooler months. Wildlife Value Native Mulberry is also an excellent wildlife plant. The ripe fruit is eagerly eaten by many birds, while the plant provides habitat for several native butterfly species, including the White Nymph. Growing Pipturus argenteus Plant in full sun to part shade with good drainage and regular moisture. As a rainforest species, it performs best when the soil does not dry out for extended periods. Its fast growth makes it useful for screening and productive native gardens. Pruning can be used to maintain a more compact shrub form. For gardeners interested in Australian bush foods, Native Mulberry offers the rare combination of attractive foliage, edible fruit, bird appeal and butterfly habitat. Plant Details Botanical name: Pipturus argenteus Common name: Native Mulberry / White Mulberry Mature height: Approximately 3–8m Mature width: Approximately 3–5m Foliage: Green above with silvery-white undersides Fruit: White, sweet and edible Position: Full sun to part shade Soil: Moist, well-drained Wildlife: Birds and butterflies Australian Bush Tucker: Edible fruit Best uses: Bush food gardens, screening and wildlife gardens
