Nottingham medlar trees

Nottingham is one of the best examples of this once-popular fruit. Medlars are primarily grown for their culinary value. However they can be eaten fresh - pick the fruit in late October, then store them in a cool dark place for 3-4 weeks to allow them to "blet". The flesh should then be a soft squidgy mush, similar to a ripe date.

Medlar trees are similar in appearance to a spreading apple trees. The branches often grow in an interesting and fashion and the leaves are attractive in the autumn.