Overview

Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' is a spreading, bushy tree in the genus Mespilus, part of the Rosaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 6.0 m tall. Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include edible fruit and ornamental. It is native to Flanders.

About

Mespilus germanica, known as the medlar or common medlar, is a large shrub or small tree in the rose family Rosaceae. When the genus Mespilus is included in the genus Crataegus, the correct name for this species is Crataegus germanica (L.) Kuntze.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Mespilus germanica

About the genus

Mespilus, commonly called medlar, is a monotypic genus of flowering plants in the family Rosaceae containing the single species Mespilus germanica of southwest Asia. It is also found in some countries in the Balkans, especially in Albanian, Macedonian and Bulgarian regions, and in Azerbaijan and Caucasian Georgia. A second proposed species, Mespilus canescens, discovered in North America in 1990, proved to be a hybrid between M.

Wikipedia contributors, "Mespilus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Mespilus

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Mespilus

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil pH
Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Tree
Habit
Spreading, bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
6.0 m
Suggested uses
Edible fruit, Ornamental
Native to
Flanders

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham'

Propagation
Chip budding, Grafting on quince rootstock
Pest resistance
Aphids, Caterpillars
Disease resistance
Honey fungus, Quince leaf blight, Brown rot, Powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham'?

Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' need?

Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

How big does Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' grow?

Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' reaches a height of 6.0 m.

Is Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' hardy in the UK?

Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Mespilus germanica 'Nottingham'?

Chip budding, Grafting on quince rootstock.

From the Fenn Plants journal