Cadillac Pear Pyrus communis 'Catillac' (C)

Names

• Family

  Rosaceae

• Synonyms

  Cadillac Pear

• Common names

  Pyrus communis 'Catillac'.

Toxicity

• To humans

  The plant in question, commonly known as Pear, is generally considered safe for human consumption. The fruit is widely eaten, and there are no significant toxic substances present in the ripe fruit that would pose a health risk to humans. However, like many fruit trees, the seeds of the Pear contain amygdalin, which can degrade into hydrogen cyanide when ingested. Eating extremely large quantities of seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning, though such cases are exceptionally rare due to the amount of seeds one would have to consume. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning from seed ingestion include headache, confusion, nausea, and potential respiratory failure in very severe cases.

• To pets

  Pear trees, known simply as Pear for pets, are not commonly associated with toxicity to pets such as dogs and cats. The ripe fruit flesh is generally safe for pets to eat in moderation. However, as with humans, the seeds can contain amygdalin, which can convert to hydrogen cyanide when metabolized. While pets are not likely to consume large enough quantities of seeds to cause serious issues, ingestion of a significant number of Pear seeds could potentially lead to cyanide poisoning in pets. Signs of poisoning can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, and shock. It is unlikely that a pet would ingest enough seeds for this to become a critical issue, but it is a potential risk if large amounts of seeds are eaten.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  White

• Height

  15 feet (4.57 meters)

• Spread

  15 feet (4.57 meters)

• Plant type

  Tree

• Hardiness zones

  5

• Native area

  Europe

General Benefits

• Ornamental Value: The Catillac pear is grown for its decorative appeal, featuring beautiful spring blossoms and striking fall foliage.
• Shade Providing: Large, mature Catillac pear trees can provide considerable shade in gardens and parks.
• Wildlife Attraction: The tree's flowers attract pollinators, while the fruit is a food source for birds and other wildlife.
• Longevity: Pear trees such as Catillac can live for many decades, offering long-term landscaping benefits.
• Drought Resistance: Once established, Catillac pear trees can tolerate periods of dry weather.
• Culinary Uses: Although Catillac pears are not commonly eaten fresh, they are suitable for cooking and making preserves.
• Wood Production: Pear wood is valued for various uses, including woodworking and as a fuel for smoking food.

Medical Properties

• This plant is not used for medical purposes.

Air-purifying Qualities

This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.

Other Uses

• The pear wood from the European pear can be used for high-quality woodwind instruments due to its dense, fine grain.
• Because of its hardness and fine texture, wood from the European pear is valued for making wood engravings and woodcuts for printmaking.
• Artisans often select pear wood for creating intricate carvings, including sculptures and decorative items, as the wood has a smooth finish.
• The wood is also appreciated by furniture makers for its durability and aesthetic appeal, particularly in the creation of veneers and inlays.
• Culinary artists sometimes use the leaves of the European pear to create ornamental plating decorations or as natural wraps during cooking for a subtle flavor infusion.
• Branches from the European pear are sometimes used in floral arrangements as an accent piece because of their attractive form and foliage.
• European pear trees can serve as a habitat and food source for a variety of wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects.
• The tree can be grown as a part of a living fence or hedgerow, utilizing its dense foliage for privacy and windbreak purposes.
• In some regions, the fruit is processed into vinegar or used as a base for fruit spirits and liquors due to its fermentable sugars.
• The dried wood of the European pear tree is valued as a high-quality firewood, burning slowly with a pleasant aromatic scent.

Feng Shui

The Pear tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.

Zodiac Sign Compitability

The Pear tree is not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Longevity: Pear trees, in general, are known for their longevity, often living for many decades. Consequently, giving someone a pear tree or its fruit, such as the Pear 'Catillac', symbolizes wishes for a long and healthy life.
• Abundance and Fertility: The pear is a fruitful tree and its generous produce is often associated with abundance. Its blossoms in springtime also make it a symbol of fertility and renewal.
• Love and Affection: In some cultures, pears are seen as a symbol of affection and love. This may be due to their sweet taste and the heart shape that the fruit sometimes assumes when cut in half.
• Peace: Historically, the pear has been seen as a symbol of peace, possibly because it is a fruit that has been enjoyed by people for centuries without the historical baggage of conflict-associated symbolism.