Medlar 'Westerveld'

'Westerveld' is a Dutch cultivar of the ancient Medlar tree, prized for its decorative qualities as much as its unusual fruit. The tree has a quaint, somewhat weeping and twisted habit, with large, dark green leaves that turn vibrant shades of orange and gold in the autumn. In late spring, it produces large, attractive white flowers that look like wild roses. The fruits are small, brownish-orange, and hard until they are 'bletted'—allowed to soften and partially decay after harvest or a frost. Once bletted, the flesh has the texture of apple sauce and a complex flavour reminiscent of spiced date or wine. 'Westerveld' is known for being more productive and having slightly smaller, more manageable fruit than other cultivars. It is fully self-fertile and very hardy (H6). Medlars are remarkably trouble-free and tolerate most soil conditions, though they prefer a sunny or partially shaded spot. They are a great choice for adding a sense of history to a garden.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Any well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.