Medlar Trees

Mespilus germanica

Although little known in the U.S., medlars have been grown in Europe for thousands of years. They are attractive small, self-fertile, tip-bearing trees that grow to 10' with healthy foliage, white flowers and unusual 1 inch diameter round fruits that are collected in the fall, after the first frosts. When picked, the fruits are much too hard to eat immediately. If allowed to ripen for a few weeks in a cool lighted place they undergo a process called bletting and become soft, spicy and very rich, with a cinnamon-applesauce flavor. Fruit is eaten raw or made into jam. Also, most varieties only require 200-400 chill hours to set fruit. USDA Zone 5-9.