Key features
AwardsRHS Award of Garden Merit
Final size2.5-3m in 10 years
FruitDual purpose (eating & cooking)
Pollination groupSelf fertile, group B
Cropping periodOctober/November
Description
Something a bit different the medlar is a small brown fruit that is picked in October or even November and then left to blet (decay) for several weeks until the flesh turns brown and soft with a flavour similar to cinnamon seasoned apple sauce. The tree is small with interesting gnarled bark, large green leaves that show good autumn colour and pretty white/blush flowers in May-June.
Nottingham Medlar trees tend to be flat topped with a spreading, almost weeping habit. It will grow well in any well drained, moist soil in a sunny position. A great choice for those who like to try something a bit different in the kitchen, ideal for preserves.
AKA Mespilus germanica ‘Nottingham’
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
