Medlar

Mespilus germanica, known as Medlar, has existed since Roman times. Its fruit is considered a great delicacy when ripe or ‘bletted’. This spreading small tree or large shrub forms a small round-headed shape and is perfect for orchards or gardens.

In late spring, Mespilus germanica produces a mass of pretty white flowers, each about 5 cm wide, followed by brown fruit, also around 5 cm across, by late summer. The oblong leaves are green during the growing season and turn mostly yellow, with occasional orange hues, in the autumn.

This deciduous tree thrives on most soils but prefers conditions that are not excessively wet. It reaches an ultimate height and spread of 4–8 meters. Mespilus germanica requires little or no pruning, making it easy to maintain.

Propagation can be done by seed sown in a seedbed in autumn, chip budding in late summer, or grafting.

Mature Height: 3-5m

Common names

Medlar

Height of tree

3-5m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Rounded

Blossom Colour

White

Foliage Colour

Green

Fruit and Nut

Medlar

Information Flags

Good for bees

Looks good in

Autumn, Spring

Location

Garden, Parkland

Genus

Mespilus