A rare European fruit tree with a rich history and 500-year lifespan. Produces small, pear-like fruit which are delicious when soft like a medlar, with flavors of spice, chocolate, and tropical fruit. The Service tree fruit can be used for making cider, jam, syrup, or dried for use as a digestive medicine. Unripe fruit was traditionally used in winemaking before sulfites and other modern additives. Beautiful pinnate foliage with brilliant fall color. Widely adapted. Zone 5-10.
ZONE: 5-10
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Blooms in May. Partially self-fertile but fruit production is higher with cross-pollination between 2 seedlings.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Full to 2/3 sun, with balanced moisture. Reduce grass competition in root zone. Top dress with compost yearly and mulch with wood chips. Grows similar to chestnut; fruit is typically harvested from ground. Can be pruned for size or shape if desired. Late season ripening. Fruit falls from tree when ripe. Needs to turn brown and soft ("blet") like a medlar before it is edible. Bletting can be delayed by storing ripe fruit in a cool, dark area or refrigerator.
CHILL HOURS: Unknown – probably low hours below 45F
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Moderate. Possibly susceptible to Phyophtora, rust, fireblight, and canker.
SIZE AT MATURITY: 60’-80’
