Sand Pear, Chinese pear

Pyrus pyrifolia

Physical Characteristics

Pyrus pyrifolia is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked. Hard and gritty[11]. Firm crisp and juicy when fully ripe, they are eaten out of hand or used in fruit salads, pies or baked etc[183]. The fruit is up to 3cm long[200]. Up to 5cm in another report[194]. The average yield from wild trees in the Himalayas is 83kg per year, though some trees yield up to 200kg[194]. The fruit contains about 4.9% sugars, 3.2% protein, 0.9% pectin[194].

Medicinal Uses

Antiseptic Astringent Febrifuge Nervine Pectoral Antiseptic, astringent, febrifuge, nervine, pectoral[178].

Known Hazards

None known