Mulberry — Morus rubra

Mulberry

Morus rubra · Hardwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Hardwood
Origin
Eastern and central North America.
Hardness
2,250 lbf (Very Hard)
Durability
Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay, frequently used in ground contact applications.

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Grain Pattern

Irregular and wavy grain with prominent growth rings, showcasing a striking cross-cut end/face grain transition with knots and swirled patterns.

Color & Appearance

Vibrant and high-contrast color palette featuring deep golden-brown, amber, and yellow heartwood contrasting sharply with pale cream to white sapwood. The wood tends to darken significantly to a rich amber-brown upon exposure to UV light.

Hardness (Janka)

2,250 lbf (Very Hard)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Very Durable. Exceptional resistance to rot and decay, frequently used in ground contact applications.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$6.00 to $12.00 per board foot for turning blanks.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Recently cut or freshly turned green wood sample, estimated at less than a few months old based on bright coloration and minimal surface oxidation.

Common Uses

Woodturning (bowls and vessels), fence posts, outdoor furniture, rustic cabinetry, and accent pieces.

Geographic Origin

Eastern and central North America.

Workability

Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots and irregular grain around branches can cause tearout. Glues and finishes well.

Finish Recommendations

Penetrating oils such as tung oil or Danish oil, or film finishes like polyurethane or lacquer to accentuate the striking chatoyance and vibrant heartwood colors.

Notable Features

Remarkable natural yellow-to-amber color transformation upon light exposure, high dimensional stability once dry, and excellent decay resistance despite being a domestic North American hardwood.

Learn more about Mulberry in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 29, 2026

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