Morus nigra 'Chelsea' (F) (syn. King James) (Mulberry)

Common name: Black mulberry

Description: 'Chelsea', also known as King James, is one of Britain's most celebrated mulberry cultivars, descended from a tree planted at what became the Chelsea Physic Garden during the reign of King James I. It develops into a spreading, medium-sized deciduous tree with broad, heart-shaped, slightly rough-textured leaves that turn warm gold in autumn. In late summer it produces large, deeply flavoured, dark red to near-black fruits with a rich, almost winelike taste that surpasses any other mulberry. The '(F)' designation confirms its selection as a superior fruiting form; it begins cropping from a young age and is reliably self-fertile.

Other benefits: historic heritage variety, superb for fresh eating, jams and preserves, attractive gnarled character with age, good autumn colour, suitable for espalier training against a sunny wall, suitable for large containers when young

Wildlife attraction: Ripe fruits attract blackbirds, song thrushes, and starlings; the spreading canopy also provides shelter and nesting sites for small birds.

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 4–5m x 4–5m (slow-growing; eventual ultimate height 8–12m over many decades)

Position: Full sun in a warm, sheltered spot; best sited against a south- or west-facing wall in cooler parts of the UK to maximise ripening.

Soil pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline; tolerant of chalk, loam, sand, and clay provided drainage is good and soil is reasonably fertile.

Moisture: Prefers moist, humus-rich, fertile soil; water well during the first three years while establishing. Moderately drought-tolerant once mature.

Winter hardiness: Fully hardy to -20°C (H6); well suited to all regions of the UK.