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

1. European mulberry having dark foliage and fruit