Bradford Pear (Pyrus calleryana 'Bradford') Facts:
Origins and Spread:
--A cultivar (cultivated variety) of the Callery pear (Pyrus calleryana), native to China and Vietnam.
--Introduced to the US in the early 1900s and widely planted for its ornamental features.
--Considered an invasive species in many areas due to its prolific seed production and ability to outcompete native plants.
Appearance and Growth:
--Small to medium-sized tree, reaching 40-50 feet tall with a dense, oval crown.
--Known for its fast growth and vase-shaped form.
--Bark is grayish-brown with shallow furrows.
--Leaves are glossy, dark green above and lighter green below, with serrated edges.
Flowers and Fruit:
--Produces clusters of showy white flowers in early spring, before leaves emerge.
--Flowers have a strong, unpleasant odor often described as fishy.
--The 'Bradford' cultivar itself is mostly sterile and produces few or no fruits.
--However, other Callery pear cultivars and rootstocks can be fertile and contribute to invasiveness.
--Fruits are small, greenish-brown, and not considered edible.
Other Considerations:
--Originally popular for its low maintenance and resistance to disease, Bradford pears have become problematic due to their weak branch structure.
--Branches are prone to splitting in heavy snow or wind, leading to safety concerns.
--Many cities and municipalities are phasing out Bradford pear plantings in favor of native species.
Alternatives:
If you're looking for a flowering tree with similar characteristics, consider native alternatives like:
--Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis)
--Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida)
--Serviceberry (Amelanchier arborea)
--American crabapple (Malus coronaria)
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