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