What Kind of Fruit Tree is the Pear-Apple?

Pear-apple tree.

The pear-apple tree is a pear tree. Commonly known as the Chinese sand pear, its scientific name is Pyrus pyrifolia.

Height

The pear-apple tree can grow to 40 feet tall with a canopy spread of 30 to 40 feet. The trees grow rapidly and may need pruning while young to develop proper branch structure.

Bark

The pear-apple tree's bark is thin and russet-colored with glossy green leaves appearing on alternating sides of the branches. The wood is delicate.

Fruit

White flowers appear in the spring, giving way to greenish brown-hued fruit. The fruit has an apple's texture but the taste of a pear.

Geography

Pear-apple trees, which originated in Asia, can be grown in hardiness zones 5 to 8.

Tip

If you want to plant pear-apple trees in your yard, plan to plant at least two varieties to ensure cross-pollination. Some varieties like the Shinseki can be self-pollinating. European pear trees cannot pollinate the Chinese sand pear.

References

• North Carolina State University: Pyrus pyrifolia
• Texas A&M: Asian pear