Pyrus salicifolia Pendula - Pendulous Willow-leaved Pear

Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula', the Weeping Willow-leaved Pear is a small tree with grey foliage and white flowers that bloom from May to June. It produces pears in late summer or early autumn from August to October.

Pears belong to the Rosaceae family. This variety is obtained from Pyrus salicifolia, a small tree or large bush native to the Caucasus and Iran. 'Pendula' has a weeping habit, reaching 5 m to 6 m (16.4 ft to 19.7 ft) in height and 4 m (13.1 ft in spread). It is an ornamental bush with highly appreciated foliage. The spring flowering from May to June consists of numerous clusters of 6 to 8 white flowers measuring 2 cm (0.8 inches) in diameter. From August to October, it produces small pear-shaped fruits, 2 cm to 3 cm (0.8 in to 1.2 in) in diameter. They are green and then turn brownish by the end of autumn. The pears are purely ornamental. The branches are not very sturdy and thorny (hairy for young shoots) and bear narrowly lanceolate leaves measuring 3 cm to 9 cm (1.2 in to 3.5 in) in length, with entire edges. They are silvery and deciduous.

Ideal as a standalone plant for small gardens. To complement its foliage, consider planting it with a blue variety of Clematis. Perfectly hardy, Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula' thrives in a sunny position. Plant it in well-drained soil. It tolerates dryness and sea spray.