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Nottingham medlar trees

Mespilus germanica
Nottingham medlar fruits
Nottingham has received the RHS Award of Garden MeritNottingham is listed in the RHS Plants for Pollinators
  • Self-fertility: Self-fertile

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.

Bio / Organic fruit trees

Nottingham organic medlar trees for sale

  • 11 yeartree on BA29 rootstock27.75€
    Medium tree (2m-3.5m after 10 years) Bare-root
  • 21 yeartree on Crataegus rootstock27.75€
    Medium tree (2m-3.5m after 10 years) Bare-root
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  • Austria
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Delivery chargesClick here to view estimated delivery charges.

Growing and Training

Nottingham Medlar is easy to grow and well-suited to the climate of northern Europe. However for best cropping, a sheltered location with a sunny aspect will give better results.


Nottingham characteristics

  • Is Nottingham self-fertile?Self-fertile
  • What flowering group is Nottingham?3
  • Picking periodlate October
  • Food usesDual purpose
  • Summer average maximum temperaturesCool ( 20-24C / 68-75F)Warm (25-30C / 76-85F)

More about medlar trees

Medlars are distantly related to pears and hawthorns, but with fruit that more closely resembles crab-apples. They are quite easy to grow provided you have a sunny spot.

All medlars are self-fertile, and can be expected to fruit when the tree is 3-4 years old.

Medlars make attractive trees, with large ornamental flowers in spring, and often interesting leaf colours in autumn.

The fruits, which resemble small russet apples, are primarily used for fruit preserves, and have a rich luscious texture when cooked. Some enthusiasts also eat the fruits raw, after they have been left to "blet" for a few weeks.


This variety description was produced by Orange Pippin staff from first-hand research. Last checked: 27-Aug-2024.

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