Medlar
Crataegus germanica
Formerly Mespilus germanica · also Crataegus mespilus
Also known as Common Medlar, Mispel
Climate Match for your location
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A small deciduous tree prized for its distinctive brown, apple-like fruits that must be 'bletted' (softened through frost or storage) before eating. Ornamental white spring blossoms and attractive autumn foliage make it valuable in permaculture systems.
Why grow it
Medlar offers a distinct harvest window in autumn and early winter when most temperate fruits have finished, making it a useful addition to permaculture plantings aimed at season extension. Unlike apples or pears, medlars require minimal pest and disease management, and their tolerance of poor soils and marginal sites allows placement in less productive areas of the garden. The tree's modest size and dual ornamental value (spring flowers and autumn color) make it practical for mixed plantings where multiple functions are desired.
Watch out for
The bletting process requires patience and appropriate storage conditions; fruit that bletts too quickly or incompletely may have poor texture or flavor. Trees may produce inconsistently in cooler climates or years with late spring frosts, as flowers can be damaged and crops may be sparse. Medlar wood is brittle and prone to breakage in high winds, so shelter or staking may be needed in exposed sites.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
South-central Asia, southeastern Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
A small deciduous tree prized for its distinctive brown, apple-like fruits that must be 'bletted' (softened through frost or storage) before eating. Ornamental white spring blossoms and attractive autumn foliage make it valuable in permaculture systems.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Medlar grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Medlar offers a distinct harvest window in autumn and early winter when most temperate fruits have finished, making it a useful addition to permaculture plantings aimed at season extension. Unlike apples or pears, medlars require minimal pest and disease management, and their tolerance of poor soils and marginal sites allows placement in less productive areas of the garden. The tree's modest size and dual ornamental value (spring flowers and autumn color) make it practical for mixed plantings where multiple functions are desired.
Watch out for
The bletting process requires patience and appropriate storage conditions; fruit that bletts too quickly or incompletely may have poor texture or flavor. Trees may produce inconsistently in cooler climates or years with late spring frosts, as flowers can be damaged and crops may be sparse. Medlar wood is brittle and prone to breakage in high winds, so shelter or staking may be needed in exposed sites.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native Range
South-central Asia, southeastern Europe
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Harvest Season
Edible Parts
Season of Interest
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Years to Bearing
- Propagation
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