Mespilus germanica is a pretty, small ornamental tree with 2 inch diameter edible brown fruits. It blooms in late spring with large flowers resembling single white roses. Fruit is eaten when soft, generally after a frost and has a texture similar to a ripe pear and a mild flavor reminiscent of cinnamon spiced apple butter. The fruit is eaten raw or made into jams or sauces. Medlars are generally kept under 8-10 ft. tall and are quick to begin flowering and fruiting. We have never observed any diseases or insect problems associated with them. They are widely adapted to soil types and can tolerate some shade. They are self-fertile and hardy to -35° F.