Willow-leaved Pear 'Pendula'

This weeping willow-leaved pear is one of the most elegant small ornamental trees available. It features slender, silver-grey leaves that closely resemble those of a willow, covered in a soft down that gives the whole tree a shimmering, frosted appearance. In spring, it produces clusters of creamy-white flowers with dark red stamens, which contrast beautifully against the emerging silvery foliage. The branches have a strongly weeping habit, often cascading right down to the ground, creating a graceful mound or "waterfall" effect. It is a very tough and hardy tree (H6), well-suited to the UK climate and particularly tolerant of drought and urban conditions once established. It is an ideal specimen for a small lawn or for adding a Mediterranean feel to a silver-themed border. It prefers a sunny position in well-drained soil. While it does produce small, hard green fruits, they are of no culinary value and are purely ornamental. Its compact size makes it highly manageable.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, fertile loam.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.