Pyrus cordata
Plymouth pear
A deciduous shrub or small tree, with spiny branches and oval-shaped, glossy green leaves. Blossom is creamy white, sometimes flushed with pink, with a strong scent often described as unpleasant. Fruits are very small, round, and brownish-green, and are popular with birds
Size
Ultimate height
4–8 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 Pink | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Green Brown | ||
| Autumn | Green Yellow | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Potentially harmful
- Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
- Genus
Pyrus are deciduous trees or shrubs with oval leaves and scented white flowers in spring, followed by green or brown fruits, edible in some species
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- W Mediterranean
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in fertile, well drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by division, removing suckers during the dormant season. Plants are self-infertile, so viable seed is rarely produced
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Banks and slopes
- Hedging and screens
Pruning
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids, caterpillars, codling moth, pear blister mite, pear midge and pear and cherry slugworm
Diseases
May be susceptible to blossom wilt, brown rot, fireblight, pear scab, European pear rust and honey fungus (rarely)
Get involved
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