Facts of Bradford Pear Trees

The Bradford pear is a beautiful spring-flowering ornamental tree that is frequently used in a variety of landscapes, including being used as street trees. This is one of the most commonly planted South Carolina trees.

The tree is a fairly fast-growing ornamental tree. It has a tear drop shape that spreads out as it grows older. The foliage turns shades of red and orange in the fall. It blooms late April to early May and is beautiful in bloom.

This tree can only be grow true as a grafted tree. You cannot get a 'Bradford' pear by planting the seed. It is grafted onto the rootstock of the Callery pear. Using the term 'Callery' pear for the Bradford is an incorrect usage, although it is done quite often.

Characteristics:

Type of Tree: Ornamental tree.

Light: Grows best full sun.

Soil Type: Moist, well-drained. Some flooding and drought tolerance.

Size at Maturity: Medium sized tree; 30'-50' tall with a spread of 20'-30' wide.

Growth: Fast grower.

Lifespan: Short; 25-30 years.

Shape: Rounded.

Blooming Time: April, before putting on new leaves.

Flowers: Small white flowers with pinkish centers.

Fruit: Round pinkish-brown berries hang loose in clusters underneath the leaves.

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