Japanese Medlar

The Japanese Medlar is an attractive evergreen shrub, typically 1.5-3m in height and spread. While primarily grown for its ornamental value and clusters of fragrant white or pink flowers in spring (April-May), it also produces small, dark blue-black, edible berries in autumn. The fruits are quite tart but can be used in preserves. Marginally hardy in the UK (H3), it requires a very sheltered, sunny position, often against a south-facing wall, and well-drained soil. It offers attractive glossy foliage throughout the year and is quite drought tolerant once established.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained loam.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.