Pyrus persica

Pers.

Rosaceae Edible: Fruit

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Wikimedia Commons - Ishizaki Yūshi

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Wikimedia Commons - Currie Brothers Company.; Henry G. Gilbert Nursery and Seed Trade Catalog Collection.

Summary

Source: Wikipedia

Pyrus persica is a deciduous tree growing to 6 meters, hardy to UK zone 7. Hermaphrodite flowers pollinated by insects. Accommodates sandy, loamy, and heavy clay soils with preference for good drainage and mildly acidic to basic pH. Thrives in semi-shade or full sun, prefers moist soil but tolerates drought and atmospheric pollution.

Description

Edible Uses

The fruit, about 3cm in diameter, can be eaten raw or cooked.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Europe, Iran, Middle East,

Cultivation

Prefers a good well-drained loam in full sun. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Tolerates light shade but does not fruit so well in such a position. Tolerates atmospheric pollution, excessive moisture and a range of soil types if they are moderately fertile. Established plants are drought tolerant. Plants are hardy to about -15°c. This species is closely related to P. amygdaliformis.

Propagation

Seed is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in autumn, when it will typically germinate in mid to late winter. Stored seed requires 8–10 weeks of cold stratification at 1°C and should be sown as early in the year as possible. Temperatures above 15–20°C can induce a secondary dormancy. Prick out seedlings into individual pots once large enough to handle, and grow on in light shade in a cold frame or greenhouse through their first year. Plant out in late spring or early summer the following year.