Medlar Mespilus germanica (F)
ABOUT
Mespilus germanica, commonly known as the medlar, is a deciduous shrub with a unique and somewhat picturesque appearance. The overall structure of the plant features a spreading habit with gnarled branches that can appear twisted and provide the medlar with a distinct, almost rugged character. Its leaves are broad and elliptic with fine serrations on the edges, creating a textured look. The foliage is typically a glossy dark green, adding a lush backdrop to the flowers and fruit. The medlar's flowers are large and singular, mostly white with a slight pink blush, blooming in late spring to early summer. They offer a soft contrast to the deep green leaves and become the focal point of the plant when in bloom. Following the flowers, the medlar produces unusual fruits that are intriguing in their appearance. The fruits are globular, with a wide base tapering to a pointed end, and are characterized by their russeted, brownish skin when ripe. The bottom of the fruit has an open, star-shaped structure known as the calyx, which remains after the flower has fallen and is a key identifier for the plant. The texture of the fruit is somewhat grainy and can be likened to a firm apple before ripening. Only after a process called bletting, which often involves a period of frost or storage, do the fruits soften sufficiently and become edible, taking on a mushy consistency and a sweet flavor that is appreciated in specific culinary uses. Overall, the medlar's appearance is distinctive, with its wizened branches, soft-hued flowers, and peculiar fruits. The medlar bears its own unique beauty, contributing to its ornamental value in a garden setting, all while offering an eclectic aesthetic few other plants can match.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Common Names: Common Medlar, Medlar, German Medlar, European Medlar. Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Common Medlar, Medlar, German Medlar, European Medlar. Family: Rosaceae.
Common names
Crataegus germanica, Mespilus vulgaris, Crataemespilus germanica.
ToxicityTo humans
Mespilus germanica, commonly known as medlar, is not considered toxic to humans. The fruit of the medlar tree is edible and has been consumed for centuries in various parts of the world. It is important to note that the fruit should be bletted, which means allowing it to soften, usually after the first frost, before consumption to reduce its astringency. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning or adverse effects from consuming ripe medlar fruit. However, eating unripe or improperly prepared fruits could potentially cause stomach upset due to their high tannin content.
To pets
Medlar, the common name for Mespilus germanica, has no known toxicity to pets. As with humans, the ripe fruits of the medlar tree are safe for pets to consume in moderation. There is no evidence to suggest that animals would suffer from poisoning after ingesting parts of the medlar plant. Nevertheless, as individual pets can have varied reactions to new foods, it is recommended to introduce any new food item, including medlar fruits, into a pet's diet gradually and to consult with a veterinarian if any concerning symptoms arise following ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
15 feet (4.57 meters)
Spread
10 feet (3.05 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Southeastern Europe Western Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible Fruit: The fruit of Mespilus germanica, commonly known as medlar, can be eaten when bletted (softened by partial decay), offering a unique flavor and texture.
- Landscape Ornamentation: Medlar trees provide ornamental value with their white flowers in spring and their broad, attractive leaves.
- Wildlife Habitat: The medlar tree can offer habitat and food for various bird species, beneficial insects, and other wildlife.
- Historical Interest: Medlar fruit has a rich history of cultivation and was more commonly consumed in the past, which can be of interest to historical gardens or educational demonstrations.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, medlar trees generally require minimal care and are quite hardy, making them suitable for low-maintenance gardening.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers of the medlar tree attract bees and other pollinators, supporting biodiversity and pollination of surrounding plants.
Medical Properties- Antidiarrheal: Mespilus germanica, commonly known as medlar, has been used in traditional medicine for its potential antidiarrheal effects.
- Gastrointestinal aid: The fruit is sometimes consumed to aid digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Anti-inflammatory: Compounds found in medlar have been suggested to possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Woodworking: The wood of the medlar is hard and dense, making it useful for small turned items like knobs and handles.
- Dye Production: The leaves and bark can be used to produce dyes for textiles.
- Wildlife Habitat: Medlar trees provide shelter and food for birds and other wildlife.
- Landscaping: Due to its attractive blossoms, medlar is sometimes planted as an ornamental tree in gardens.
- Fruit Leather: The fruit can be dried and made into fruit leather as a natural sweet snack.
- Bonsai: The medlar can be cultivated as a bonsai tree for ornamental purposes.
- Ink Manufacture: Tannins from the medlar's fruit and leaves can be used to make natural inks.
- Companion Planting: Medlar trees can be integrated into permaculture designs and orchards as companion plants supporting biodiversity.
- Photography: Juice from the medlar fruit has historical use as a photographic print toner for sepia-toned pictures.
- Traditional Games: The seeds of the medlar have been used historically for playing board games or as counters.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Medlar is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Patience: Medlar (Mespilus germanica) fruits are only edible after they blet, a process of over-ripening, symbolizing the virtue of patience as one waits for the right time.
- Time and Transformation: Its unique ripening process signifies the transformation over time, correlating with life changes and maturity.
- Rarity and Appreciation: Due to its lesser-known status and unusual appearance, the medlar represents uniqueness and the appreciation of rare beauty or qualities.
WaterThe common medlar, or Mespilus germanica, prefers a consistent moisture level, so it should be watered regularly but not excessively. Check the top inch of soil, and if it's dry to the touch, provide water. During the growing season, watering once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons per plant should suffice. However, cut back on watering during the dormant winter months. Always avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot, and water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.
LightThe common medlar thrives best in full sun to part shade. A sunny spot in the garden that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight is ideal. In regions with particularly hot summers, some afternoon shade can be beneficial to prevent leaf scorch.
TemperatureThe common medlar is a hardy plant and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F, but it grows best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F. It can survive brief spikes above this range but prolonged exposure to heat can affect the plant adversely. Ensure protection from harsh winter winds which can damage the plant, especially at temperatures near the lower end of its tolerance.
PruningThe common medlar should be pruned to maintain its shape and to remove any dead or diseased wood. Prune during the late winter or early spring before the growing season starts. Thinning out some of the center branches can improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, which is beneficial for fruit production. Generally, an annual pruning routine is adequate for this plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMedlar (Mespilus germanica) thrives best in well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix containing garden soil, compost, and leaf mold or perlite will create an ideal growing medium for this fruit tree.
RepottingMedlar trees, when grown in containers, should be repotted every 2-3 years to replenish the soil and give roots more space to grow. Use the repotting process as a chance to inspect the root system for health.
Humidity & MistingMedlar trees are adaptable to a range of outdoor humidity levels and do not require specific humidity conditions when planted in the ground; average outdoor ambient humidity is generally suitable for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Medlar trees need bright light, infrequent watering, and room to grow indoors.
Outdoor
Plant medlar in sun, well-drained soil; water and mulch.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleMespilus germanica, commonly known as Common Medlar, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which typically requires stratification to break seed dormancy. Once germinated, the seedling goes through a growth phase, developing a deep root system and foliage. The plant reaches maturity in a few years, flowering typically in late spring with single white or pale pink blossoms that give way to fruit. After pollination, the fruit slowly develops, maturing by autumn but usually becoming soft and edible after the first frosts (bletting). The plant then enters a period of dormancy during winter, shedding leaves and conserving energy. With the return of favorable conditions in the next growing season, the Common Medlar resumes its cycle with new growth and flowering, completing its perennial cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Early spring
The most popular method of propagating Mespilus germanica, commonly known as common medlar, is by grafting. Grafting should be done in late winter or early spring before the sap starts to flow. A rootstock that is compatible with the medlar, such as quince or pear, is selected. To graft medlar, a scion, which is a cutting from a mature medlar tree with several buds, is attached to the rootstock using techniques like whip and tongue grafting or cleft grafting. The junction between scion and rootstock is wrapped and sealed to prevent desiccation and infection. Over time the scion and rootstock grow together, forming a new medlar tree which will bear fruit identical to the parent tree from which the scion was taken.
