Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’ (Callery Pear)

Noted for its three seasons of interest, Pyrus calleryana ‘Bradford’ (Callery Pear) is an ornamental deciduous tree of pyramidal habit with strongly vertical limbs in youth, becoming broader with age. In early spring, a profusion of five-petaled, creamy white flowers are draped in clusters along the branches. They are truly a sight to behold. They are followed by small, inedible, greenish-yellow fruits that attract quite a number of birds who find them delicious. The glossy dark green foliage is quite handsome with broadly oval, leathery leaves adorned with wavy margins. In the fall, it turns incredible shades ranging from red and orange to dark maroon. Bradford is the most fireblight-resistant cultivar of the Callery Pears. Impressive for up to 20 years, this pear tree however, becomes apt to limb breakage over time. 

• Grows up to 30-50 ft. tall (9-15 m) and 20-35 ft. wide (6-8 m).
• A full sun lover, this tree is easily grown in humusy, moist, well-drained soils. This pear tree is not too fussy about soil conditions and tolerates heavy clays. Some drought tolerance once established.
• Prune as needed in winter.
• Virtually pest free. May be affected by fireblight.
• Propagate by seed sown in a frame in winter or by grafting in winter.
• Pyrus calleryana species is native to China and Vietnam.
• Find where Pyrus calleryana species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.