Pyrus calleryana: 'Bradford' Callery Pear: ENH-695/ST537, 12/2018

Abstract

`Bradford' is the original introduction of Callery Pear and has an inferior branching habit when compared to other cultivars which have since been developed. It has many vertical limbs with embedded bark packed closely on the trunk and grows about 40 feet high by 30 to 45 feet wide but the crown is dense and the branches long and not tapered, making it quite susceptible to wind and ice damage and other breakage. However, it does put on a gorgeous, early spring display of pure white blossoms, and the small, red/brown fruits which follow will attract quite a number of birds who find them delicious. Fruit set may be increased by planting two or more cultivars of Callery Pear together. Fall color is incredible, ranging from red and orange to dark maroon. Original publication date November 1993.