Pyrus salicifolia aka Willow Leaf Pear
Taxonomy
Pyrus salicifolia, also known as willow-leaved pear or weeping pear, is a species of pear tree native to the Middle East. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree, usually as a pendulous cultivar. The tree is deciduous and typically grows to a height of 10-12 meters with a rounded crown, featuring pendulous, silvery foliage that resembles a weeping willow. During the spring, the tree produces large and pure white flowers with black-tipped stamens, while the buds are tipped with red. The small green fruits are inedible, hard, and astringent.
Pyrus salicifolia grows well on infertile sandy soils due to its spreading root system. It is widely cultivated in gardens and landscapes and can be trimmed back and shaped almost like topiary during the rest of the year. However, this species of tree is very susceptible to fireblight, a bacterial pathogen. It may also be confused with other similar species such as Pyrus nivalis and Pyrus elaeagnifolia.
The cultivar 'Pendula' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Additionally, willow-leaved pear can also be grown as a houseplant, with regular watering and direct light. It prefers well-draining soil and does not require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size. As a member of the Pyrus genus, willow-leaved pear is native to Turkey.
Common names
Willow Leaf Pear, Willow Leaved PearHow to care for Willow Leaf Pear
Difficulty
With its straightforward care requirements, Willow Leaf Pear is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.
Water
Willow Leaf Pear should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Willow Leaf Pear loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Willow Leaf Pear prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Fertilizer
The Willow Leaf Pear is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Willow Leaf Pear’s native range is S.E. Europe to W. Asia.
More info:
Wikipedia
