The Medlar: An Ancient Fruit Tree Worth Rediscovering
If you’re looking to add a touch of medieval charm to your garden, the medlar (Mespilus germanica) might just be the conversation starter you never knew you needed. This quirky little fruit tree has been delighting (and confusing) gardeners for centuries with its unusual fruits and old-world appeal.
What Exactly Is a Medlar?
The medlar is a small deciduous tree that’s like the eccentric cousin of apples and pears. While it’s not native to North America—originally hailing from Southwest Asia, Iran, Armenia, and Asia Minor before naturalizing across Europe—this ancient fruit tree has found its way into the hearts of gardeners who appreciate something a little different.
Standing typically 15-20 feet tall and wide at maturity, medlars have a pleasantly rounded, spreading growth habit that makes them perfect specimen trees for smaller gardens.
Why You Might Want to Plant a Medlar
Here’s what makes medlars special:
- Four-season interest: Spring brings clusters of white to pale pink flowers, summer offers lush green foliage, fall delivers gorgeous golden-brown leaf color, and winter showcases interesting bare branches
- Unique fruit: The brown, apple-sized fruits are edible when bletted (allowed to soften after frost), with a flavor often described as spiced apple butter
- Pollinator friendly: Late spring flowers provide nectar for bees and other beneficial insects
- Low maintenance: Once established, medlars are remarkably self-sufficient
- Historical significance: Perfect for heritage or cottage-style gardens
The Not-So-Great Parts
Before you rush to plant one, consider these factors:
- The fruit has a very acquired taste—think wine and cheese territory
- It’s not native to North America, so it won’t support local ecosystems as effectively as native alternatives
- The fruits can create a bit of mess if left to fall
- Growth rate is moderate to slow, so patience is required
Growing Your Medlar Successfully
Medlars are surprisingly adaptable and forgiving once you understand their preferences:
Location and Soil
- Plant in full sun to partial shade (though more sun means better fruit production)
- Well-drained soil is essential—they hate wet feet
- Tolerates various soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as drainage is good
- Hardy in USDA zones 4-8
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Water regularly the first year until established
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Minimal pruning needed—just remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches in late winter
- Be patient—fruit production typically begins 3-5 years after planting
Perfect Garden Companions
Medlars shine in cottage gardens, edible landscapes, and anywhere you want to create a sense of history. They pair beautifully with other old-fashioned plants like roses, lavender, and herbs. Consider underplanting with spring bulbs for early season color.
A Native Alternative to Consider
While medlars certainly have their charm, if you’re prioritizing native plants for wildlife support, consider the American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) instead. It offers similar fruit interest, supports native wildlife, and thrives in many of the same conditions.
The Bottom Line
The medlar isn’t for everyone—and that’s exactly what makes it special. If you’re drawn to unusual plants with rich histories, don’t mind waiting for rewards, and have space for a small tree that marches to its own drumbeat, a medlar could be the perfect addition to your garden. Just remember to plant it where you can enjoy its unique character without expecting it to behave like every other fruit tree on the block.
