Mespilus germanica 'Iranian' (F)
medlar 'Iranian'
A slightly more compact medlar cultivar producing fruit very good for eating fresh. It originates from the wild medlars growing in northern Iran and is one of the best flavoured. It forms as a small, spreading tree with oblong, leathery, green leaves turning yellow-brown in autumn. Attractive, white, cup-shaped flowers appear in late spring, followed by russet-brown fruit. When fully ripe the flesh turns brown and quite sweet. Self-fertile. Cropping season: October to early November
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Brown Yellow | Brown | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy, Spreading branched
- Genus
Mespilus is a small spreading deciduous tree or large shrub with large leaves colouring well in autumn, and white flowers followed by edible fruits
- Name status
Unresolved
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun or light shade. Wait to collect fruit until after frost. See How to grow: medlars for further cultivation details
Propagation
Propagate by chip budding or grafting on quince rootstock – rootstocks for fruit
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Edible fruit
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids and caterpillars
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility. May also be susceptible to quince leaf blight, brown rot and powdery mildews
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