Product description
Mespilus germanica ‘Nottingham’ is a late-season deciduous tree with large leaves which colour well in Autumn and white flowers followed by edible fruits. Nottingham Medlar trees are commonly flat topped with a spreading, almost weeping habit.
Between mid-October and early November, the fruit should part easily from the branches and are ready to be picked and stored for several weeks until the flesh turns brown and soft, the flavour of this fruit is not dissimilar from apple sauce.
These days Medlar trees are more commonly grown for their ornamental value opposed to the high price they would once go for. Nottingham is the only variety that is still available for commercial growing.
Medlar Tree
Mespilus 'Nottingham'
Mespilus 'Nottingham'
Product description
Mespilus germanica ‘Nottingham’ is a late-season deciduous tree with large leaves which colour well in Autumn and white flowers followed by edible fruits. Nottingham Medlar trees are commonly flat topped with a spreading, almost weeping habit.
Between mid-October and early November, the fruit should part easily from the branches and are ready to be picked and stored for several weeks until the flesh turns brown and soft, the flavour of this fruit is not dissimilar from apple sauce.
These days Medlar trees are more commonly grown for their ornamental value opposed to the high price they would once go for. Nottingham is the only variety that is still available for commercial growing.
Give your tree the best start
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune medlar trees in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged wood and maintain a well-balanced shape. Medlars are slow-growing and require minimal pruning, but thinning out crowded branches improves air circulation and encourages healthy fruit production. Harvest the fruit after the first frost when it has softened and turned brown, as this is when it develops its sweet, rich flavour.
How to Water
Water medlar trees deeply after planting to establish strong roots, particularly during dry spells in the first year. Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering in extended dry periods. Aim to water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimise evaporation and allow moisture to reach the roots. Avoid waterlogging, as medlars prefer slightly moist but well-drained soil conditions.
How to Plant
To plant a medlar tree, choose a sunny or lightly shaded spot with well-draining soil, ideally loam or sandy soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to accommodate it without bending the roots. Soak the root ball in water before placing it in the hole, ensuring the graft union sits just above soil level. Backfill the hole, firm the soil gently, and water thoroughly. Add a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the trunk.
