Pyrus ussuriensis

Pyrus ussuriensis   –   Manchurian Pear

Manchurian pears are beautiful and versatile trees that will add aesthetic value to many landscapes. They are some of the most commonly grown ornamental pears, with a stunning spring flower display and fantastically colourful autumn foliage. Their moderate growth rate make them a great addition to both new and existing gardens.

Pyrus ussuriensis is native to Korea, Japan, and the Ussuri River region of eastern China and Russia. It is one of the first ornamental pears to flower in spring. Pale pink buds open into pretty clusters of fragrant, single white flowers. These attract pollinators and provide a gorgeous display.

Fruits develop following flowering, with the tree producing small (up to 3 cm diameter), round, brownish-yellow pears. These fruits are usually treated as ornamental, though they are edible and can be used for making jams and jellies. They are not very tasty when eaten fresh, but the flavour is improved after frost if you'd like to give them a try!

The foliage of Manchurian pears is glossy and dark green. Their rounded leaves turn beautiful shades of deep red, purple and gold in the autumn. They are also some of the last deciduous trees to lose their leaves, with the foliage held late into autumn.

In addition to its beauty, Pyrus ussuriensis is also a hardy and resilient tree that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and growing conditions. It is drought tolerant and can withstand very cold temperatures, making it an ideal choice for gardens and landscapes in a wide variety of regions.

• Height: 10 m
• Width: 8 m
• Habit: Pyramidal when young, becoming dense and rounded with age
• Suitable for medium-sized gardens, parks, avenue plantings and make great street trees

Tree Care

Ensure well-drained and cultivated soil before planting. Be careful to position the bud union above ground level. Water well after planting and maintain soil moisture until the tree's roots have had time to establish. Fertilise and trim the tree during planting to stimulate fresh growth.Fertilise again after fresh growth emerges.