black mulberry
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A species of mulberry tree: black mulberry refers specifically to Morus nigra, a deciduous tree native to Southwest Asia. It is characterized by its dark, often blackish edible fruit and its broad, rough leaves. 2. The fruit of this tree: The term can also denote the compound fruit produced by this tree, which is dark purple to black when ripe, juicy, and tart-sweet in flavor.
Usage Examples
- Referring to the tree:
- The old black mulberry in the garden provides excellent shade in the summer.
- We planted a black mulberry because its fruit is excellent for making preserves.
- Referring to the fruit:
- She gathered a basket of ripe black mulberry from the branches.
- The jam made from black mulberry has a uniquely rich color and taste.
Advanced Usage
- In botanical or horticultural contexts: The term is used precisely to distinguish from other species like the white mulberry () or red mulberry ().
- For a true black mulberry, look for the species Morus nigra, which has a bushier growth habit than the white mulberry.
Variants and Related Words
- Mulberry (n): The general term for trees of the genus and their fruit.
- Morus nigra (n): The scientific Latin name for the black mulberry tree.
Synonyms
- Common mulberry (This is a less precise synonym, as it can refer to other species.)
- Persian mulberry (A regional name for .)
Notes on Meaning
- The term black mulberry is primarily a botanical/common name for a specific plant species and its fruit. It is not typically used in idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs. Its meaning is concrete and literal.
Noun
- European mulberry having dark foliage and fruit