Key features
Final size5 x 5 metres in 20 years
FoliageSilvery-green leaves in spring & summer
FlowersWhite flowers in spring
PositionFull sun in a sheltered site
SoilPrefers well-draining soil
Description
Pyrus elaeagnifolia ‘Silver Sails’ is named for its pretty silvery-green foliage shaped like boat sails. The leaves have a coating of silky hairs that add texture and enhance the silvery effect. This silver pear tree produces highly decorative medium sized white flowers with red anthers in spring. In autumn, small yellow-green ornamental fruits appear before the leaves fall.
‘Silver Sails’ is an attractive ornamental pear tree with an upright, slightly spreading habit. It benefits from being tolerant of most soil types as long as it is fairly well-draining. It is also drought tolerant and likes full sun.
AKA Ornamental pear ‘Silver Sails’, Oleaster-leaved pear ‘Silver Sails’
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.
