Position

Sun exposure:
Dappled shade, full sun
Aspect:
South facing, west facing
Position in border:
Back

Soil

Well Drained / Light / Sandy

A wide spreading small tree, medlar, Mespilus germanica, is grown for its large, russet-brown unusual-shaped fruit, which is commonly used to make jams and jellies. The fruit is an acquired taste – tart if eaten raw but if allowed to become so ripe that it has started to decay, the flavour is similar to toffee apples.

Mespilus germanica is perfect for growing in a cottage garden, particularly with an underplanting of spring bulbs, which complement its white flowers. Grow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plantyesyesyes
Flowersyesyes
Pruneyesyes
Harvestyesyes

Mespilus and wildlife

Mespilus is known for attracting bees. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/​Moths
Butterflies/​Moths
Is not known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators

Is Mespilus poisonous?

Mespilus has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Cats
Cats
Is not known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
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