Marlberry

Marlberry is a berry shrub. It is a tall evergreen shrub or small tree that blooms in small, dark clusters of abundant, deep purple-black colored berries with long, dark green leaves.  

Marlberry is a beautiful shrub native to the Caribbean region and Florida. It is found on the central and southern peninsulas of Florida. Besides Florida, marlberry can also be found in the Caribbean and various regions of Central America.  



Marlberry Flowers & Fruit

They can grow as a shrub or small tree, though it naturally grows as a natural evergreen shrub. The flowers on the shrub bloom fragrant flowers intermittently throughout the year. In the springtime is when the shrub bears the small fruits.  

The berries start out as red to green berries. As they mature, then turn to a darker, glossy, shiny dark color. At the mature stage, the berries are dark purple-black, glossy, and juicy. 


Comparison of Marlberry and other popular berries 

There are numerous types of berries worldwide that differ in color, shape, and taste. Marlberry is not a common edible berry of choice like most common sweet berries found at the produce section at the market. They make great additions to gardens and not so much growing them for consumption. Most common berries are essentially grown not just for their beauty but mainly cultivated and grown for food consumption, like blueberries and raspberries. 



Availability  

Unlike common berries such as blackberries, marlberries are not the typical berries sold at the supermarket or found easily at Farmers Market. These types of berries are typically found in woodland-type gardens. They can also be found in pinerock lands, coastal strands, and thickets. Garden centers in Florida that have native plants may include marlberry shrubs, but they are mainly found in various habitats.   

Marlberry is excellent for coastal, tropical, woodland, and native plant gardens. These shrubs are great additions to landscapes. Great for shady or sunny gardens or landscapes. 


Taste   

Marlberry is an edible berry fruit. The taste of these berries can vary among people. The taste is not too tasty for many, while others find the taste of marlberries quite pleasant. Some people have referenced the taste close to blackberries and grapes, a mild sweet flavor. Others have mentioned a mild tart taste. Some people find the taste just average nothing too special compared to other natural sweet-tasting fruits. 

These berries are known to be great survival food. The berries are a great source of food for migratory birds and other smaller animals in the wildlife, such as bees and butterflies. Marlberries are a significant supplier of food for wildlife animals. 




Summary 

The marlberry shrub makes an attractive accent plant for gardens or landscapes. The dark leaves and cluster berries can contrast with other flowers and plants in a water garden or shady beds. These berry evergreen shrubs are beautiful shrubs that can make a fruit garden stand out. The cluster of berries grows in abundance, making it an excellent source of food for wildlife. Though not a popular berry option, a nice berry choice to perhaps try out in a recipe. 


Shady Garden with Marlberry Shrubs




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