First Discovery of Black Mulberry (Morus nigra L.) Pollen in a Late Bronze Age Well at Sint-Gillis-Waas (Flanders, Belgium): Contamination or in situ Deposition?

Abstract

During the palynological investigation of the fill of a Late Bronze Age well on the archaeological site of Sint-Gillis-Waas/Kluizemolen (Flanders, Belgium), a black mulberry (Morus nigra L.) pollen grain was identified. Although this find still represents the only evidence available, it could imply that the tree was grown locally in late prehistoric times. Macrobotanical remains of black mulberry (especially seeds) are only known as Roman introductions in nearby regions such as France, Germany and the British Isles.

Keywords:

• POLLEN
• MORUS NIGRA
• LATE BRONZE AGE
• FLANDERS