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Fruit EdibleTrees

Pyrus communis 'Obelisk' (D)
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

A dwarf deciduous tree of columnar form, reaching 2.5m. It has glossy green leaves which become yellow in autumn. It is self-fertile and its white blossom in spring develops into late-picking green fruit with a flush of red

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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Green
Summer Green
Autumn Yellow Green Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Rosaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright, Spreading branched
Genus

Pyrus are deciduous trees or shrubs with oval leaves and scented white flowers in spring, followed by green or brown fruits, edible in some species

Name status

Unresolved

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in full sun, in deep fertile soil which isn't too alkaline. For more advice see pear cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by grafting or chip budding onto a clonal rootstock for fruit; quince rootstocks are usually used. The rootstock used largely determine the size

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Edible fruit
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

Requires regular pruning. For more advice see pruning new pear trees, summer pear pruning and winter pear pruning

Pests

May be susceptible to pear blister mite and pear midge

Diseases

May be susceptible to brown rots, European pear rust and pear scab

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