(Flowering Pear, Deciduous Pear)
SIZE: Medium (Height: 25-30'; Spread: 15-20'). Varies by cultivar.
GROWTH RATE: Moderate.
FOLIAGE: Green, glossy leaves, 1-3" long. Fall color ranges from yellow to purplish-red, depending on cultivar and temperatures. Tree is bare November-February.
FLOWER/FRUIT/BARK: White flowers in clusters, 1" across, bloom February to March. Hard, buff-colored fruit, 1/4" across occasionally forms in summer and drops. Smooth, light gray bark.
MONTHLY WATERING NEEDS: In general, 15-20 gallons per week for the first 2 years; 15-20 gallons twice a month for the 3rd year; as needed after 3 years (varies by soil, sun, and wind conditions).
TREE CARE: Medium. Early pruning needed to train a good shape; pruning needed less frequently with age. Occasional removal of suckers.
TOLERANCES: Poor drainage, smog.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Prefers sun. Does not tolerate strong winds. Subject to fireblight.
NOTABLE TRAITS: Cultivar of Chinese natives. Attractive fall foliage and spring flowers.
ALTERNATE FORMS: 'Chanticleer', 'Red Spire' and 'Bradford' are more resistant to fireblight than 'Aristocrat'. 'New Bradford' has wider branch angles than the originally introduced 'Bradford'.