Unusual Fruit Trees~ The Medlar

[bergere]

Medlar
Mespilus germanica
Unique and very uncommon in North America, Medlar has been popular in Europe since the Middle Ages. Forming an attractive, small tree, growing 8-10 ft. in height, Medlar's long, dark green, tropical looking foliage is accented by large white flowers and striking, chestnut brown fruit. The fruit ripens in mid to late October when it turns very dark brown and becomes soft. It is then ready to eat and has the taste and texture of spiced applesauce.

Size at Maturity: 8-10 ft.

Pollination: Medlar is self-fertile.

Pests & Diseases: Medlar is not bothered by pests or diseases.

Hardiness: Medlar is hardy to minus 25°F

Bearing Age: 2nd or 3rd year after planting

Bloom Time: May

Ripening Time: Mid to late October

Yield: 20+ lbs.

Culinary Uses: Medlar is often harvested in October when it is still firm. Kept inside, it will turn a very dark brown and become soft. It is then ready to eat and has the taste and texture of spiced applesauce.

USDA Zone: 4



www.onegreenworld.com//index.php?cPath=1_38

www.kitchengardeners.org/2006/01/medlar.html

I had one of these growing at the old farm. But ended up moving before we got to eat any of the Fruit.

[Kathy]

Someday, I'm going to have a place filled with unusual fruits and veggies!! ;D
I used to get a catalog from Raintree Nurseries in WA and would just drool over the huge variety of weird & wonderful edibles!! ;D

[auntieemu]

I notice that a lot of the seed catalogs are beginning to offer a more extensive variety of food bearing plants - and a lot of them do really well in winter climates. I think we have an ice age coming and they are trying to get us ready for it. ;D

[bergere]

So when we have global warming... the NW gets colder?

One Green World, is also another very good source for Fruit Trees and bushes.

Have used both them and Rain tree for a long time.
However the last two years I have liked the quality and size of the Trees from, One Green World, better.

Of course both carry some of the Trees I like. So I still order from both.

Kathy you can get these kind of apple trees and put them in a pot on your porch. Is called the Scarlet Sentinel.

[Kathy]

Now that's an idea-I am going to have to check that out. I never thought about a patio fruit tree! ;D

Now how cool would that be-my own fruit, herbs and veggies while living in an apartment!!

[bergere]

Kathy all of that is very do-able!!

When Hubby was in the Navy we had to rent. You should of seen the plants I could put in pots in a very small area! ;D