Mespilus germanica (MEDLAR)

Description:Common name: Medlar, Minshull crab. A small distinctive broad topped tree with fresh green large leathery foliage. In early summer apple blossom like stary white flowers are seen over the tree and can be showy. Distinct calyx remains as the brown russety fruits develop. The fruits are hard and dry and not edible until later in the year

Uses: A small tree can be of interest as a lawn specimen in a small area. Used also for the fruit which should be left on the tree until after frost and starting to decay or bletted (over-ripe), and can be made into delicious preserves, medlar cheeses or jelly

Climate/Position: Sunny position required

Height/Spread: 3-5 metres height and spread

Soil Requirements: Any free draining soil slightly acidic soil preferred

Pruning: No pruning required but if shaping needed then after flowering or when dormant February

Additional Interest: Though the species name germaninca implies native to Germany it is in fact widely native throughout Eastern Europe into Asia