Bradford Pear Trees Description
The Bradford pear, also known as the Callery pear, is one of the most popular ornamental trees in the United States, appearing in most commercial business parks and residential areas. These trees are cherished for their snow-white beauty during the early bloom each spring. The original strain of Bradford Pear trees were sterile, but the hybrid strain of today produces marble-sized fruit that is typically used only in wine recipes. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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The Bradford pear (Pyrus calleryana) originated in Southeast Asia. A variation of the pear tree taken from China and Korea first appeared in the United States in 1908, and cultivation of the tree quickly spread across the country. By 1919, this pear tree became known as the Bradford pear. The United States Department of Agriculture introduced the Bradford pear commercially in 1963.
Identification
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Spring Bradford pear blooms Bradford pear leaves are dark green with a glossy shine and smooth texture. The signature blooms of the Bradford pear are bright white, measure 1 inch across and contain five petals. The fruit produced by the tree is very small and usually taken by birds. The tree holds its brilliant, glossy-green color throughout the summer months before the leaf color transforms into a mixture of reds, purples, pinks and yellows each fall.
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Size
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Bradford pears typically grow to a height of 40 to 50 feet when mature, but can stand as tall as 60 feet, according to the Urban Landscaping Research Team at North Caroline State University. These trees have a pyramidal shape that gradually grows into a spherical shape as they age.
Health
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The immune system of the Braford pear is one of the strongest of all ornamental trees. It is resistant to most sicknesses and blight. The tree easily adapts to most conditions and usually handles transplanting with ease. Bradford pears require full sun and are highly tolerant of heat and drought.
Considerations
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According to Master Gardener Marc Montefusco, many landscapers and developers are suggesting alternatives for home owners and commercial sites because of the Bradford pear's short life expectancy (less than 25 years), despite the resounding popularity of the tree. The weak branches and brittle wood composition of this tree leave it defenseless against ice storms, snow storms and storms with heavy winds. Severe branch or trunk splitting may occur under these conditions, and removal of your tree may be necessary.
Warnings
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The Bradford pear is a very aggressive spreader and can invade surrounding areas through seed dispersion. In some cases the Bradford pear will displace current plants. Seeds of the tree are dispersed by birds, squirrels and other animals.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit verger image by Toanet from Fotolia.com pear blossoms image by Ales Masner from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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I wish they would have never been introduce in the United States. Their blooms stink and they break even if you fart at them. These 3 in my front yard will be the 5th in total we have to cut down since we moved to NC.
