Pyrus cordata aka Plymouth Pear

Pyrus cordata, the Plymouth pear, belongs to the rose family. It grows as a deciduous shrub or small tree. Plants For A Future records it in western France, Spain, and Portugal. It also records the species in southwest England. There, it grows in hedges, mainly near Plymouth. RHS describes its wider range as the western Mediterranean.

In gardens, it reaches about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres] tall. Its spread reaches about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Plants take 10–20 years to reach their full size. The crown has a bushy shape, and branches bear spines. Glossy green leaves have an oval shape and fall for winter. These traits suit a hedge or screen in informal gardens. RHS also lists it for banks, slopes, and wildlife gardens. Plants For A Future suggests a sunny woodland edge.

The flowers open in mid-spring, according to Plants For A Future. They are cream-white, sometimes with a pink tint. Their strong smell can be unpleasant, despite their pale blooms. Small, round fruits follow, with a brown-green skin. Plants For A Future gives their length as 0.4–0.7 inches. Birds eat the fruit, adding value to wildlife plantings. The plants cannot fertilise themselves, so viable seed is scarce. RHS recommends division by taking suckers during the dormant season.

Choose full sun and fertile soil that drains well. The soil can be moist, but water must drain away. RHS lists clay, chalk, loam, and sand as suitable. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. A south-facing or west-facing site suits its light needs. It can grow in either exposed or sheltered spots. RHS rates its hardiness H5 for UK growing conditions. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 8–10. These ratings come from different systems and should remain distinct.

Several pests and diseases may affect this pear. Aphids, caterpillars, and codling moth are among its pests. Others include pear blister mite, pear midge, and slugworm. Diseases include blossom wilt, brown rot, fireblight, scab, and rust. Honey fungus is a rarer risk. Sources disagree about eating the fruit. Plants For A Future lists it as edible, raw or cooked. It reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. RHS instead warns people and pets not to eat it. Treat the fruit as ornamental because of that warning.