GARDEN TALES: The Medlar Tree

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

The Medlar Tree

The medlar tree originated in Iran; it was the Romans who brought the first medlar saplings to England. it still grows wild in the forests on the south Caspian coast of Iran. This part of Iran does have severely cold winters.

The medlar is a compact tree which looks like a hawthorn; its restrained size makes it an ideal tree for the small garden. Medlar is not particular about type of soil - it will grow in slightly damp or slightly dry soil; it also tolerates a degree of shade.

The medlar fruit tree is a member of the Rosaceae family; however the fruits are never sold in supermarkets. You are more likely to find the fruits of the medlar tree in organic markets. Medlar fruit are best picked from the trees when hard and then allowed to ripen fully while in storage. Medlar fruit which tastes like a sweet stewed apple can be treated just like pear fruit.

Keepers Nursery in Maidstone, Kent specialises in growing unusual fruit trees such as medlar. The best known variety is 'Nottingham'. There are eight or nine other varieties, look out for the aforementioned - it was recommended by Tony Russell on Gardeners' Question Time last Sunday.