Description
Native to Asia Minor and widely naturalised across Europe, Mespilus germanica belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is one of the oldest cultivated fruit trees, valued for both its blossom and its fruits, which are eaten after bletting.
Adult height : 3 to 6 metres
Adult spread : 5 to 7 metres
Habit : Spreading, slightly twisted, trunk often sinuous
Foliage : Deciduous; large oval dark‑green leaves turning yellow in autumn
Flowering period : May to June
Flowers : White, solitary, cup‑shaped, 3 cm wide, highly ornamental
Fruits : Copper‑brown medlars, top‑shaped, edible after bletting (harvest in November)
Hardiness : Excellent, down to -20 °C
Exposure : Full sun or partial shade
Soil : Ordinary, well‑drained, rather rich but tolerates calcareous or clay soils
Tolerance : Not very sensitive to drought; adapts well to varied climates
Season : Autumn or early spring
Preparation : Loosen soil, add mature compost or well‑rotted manure
Spacing : 5 to 7 metres depending on desired growth
At planting : Regular watering during the first year
When mature : Low maintenance, except during prolonged drought
When : Winter or late autumn
Advice : Light maintenance pruning to remove dead or misdirected wood; no severe pruning required
By seed (slow to germinate), grafting or layering
Positions : Orchard, large garden as a specimen tree, country hedge border, natural area
Recommended plant associations :
Shrubs :
Perennials :
Susceptibility : Very little prone to disease; robust against pests
Prevention : No treatment required under normal conditions
Plant in well‑drained soil with good sunlight, water regularly during the first years, avoid overly rich fertilisation except at planting, avoid heavy pruning to preserve its natural shape, and expect 2 to 4 years before significant fruiting.
The common medlar (Mespilus germanica) produces fibre‑rich, antioxidant‑rich fruits valued in traditional cooking.
Its hard, dense wood is used for small objects, tool handles and fine woodworking.
Beyond its practical uses, the tree has strong ornamental value and supports orchard biodiversity.
Expédition & livraison
As soon as you place your order your plants are selected
Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.Shipping of our plants throughout Europe (except overseas and islands).
Customer reviews
