Bradford Pear (Callery Pear)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Pyrus, Species: P. calleryana · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous leaf
Species
Pyrus calleryana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Broadly ovate to nearly orbicular with an acute apex and rounded base
Size
Approximately 2 to 3 inches long and nearly as wide, which is typical for mature leaves of this species
Margin
Finely crenate-serrate with rounded to slightly pointed small teeth
Arrangement
Alternate on the twig, featuring a distinct, slender petiole
Rarity
Very Common, frequently encountered in cultivation and as an invasive weed tree along roadsides and disturbed areas
Color & Pattern
Dark green upper surface with a slightly paler lower surface, typical of a healthy summer-matured leaf without unusual variegation or spotting
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and ascending secondary veins
Texture & Surface
Leathery to papery texture with a glabrous (smooth) and somewhat glossy upper surface
Description
The Bradford Pear is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its dense, symmetrical, oval canopy, a profusion of white spring flowers with a distinct scent, glossy dark green foliage, and vibrant autumn colors ranging from red to purple
Key Features
Glossy, somewhat leathery oval leaves with finely crenate margins, wavy leaf surfaces, prominent petioles, and dense clusters of foul-smelling white blossoms in early spring
Habitat
Adaptable to a wide range of urban and suburban environments, thriving in full sun and various soil types from clay to loam
Geographic Range
Native to China and Vietnam, widely planted across North America as an ornamental street tree and has become invasive in many regions
Condition Notes
The specimen is in good condition, well-preserved on an FFA herbarium card, showing intact margins and typical coloration for a pressed leaf
Interesting Facts
Though initially praised for its symmetrical shape and resistance to pests, the Bradford Pear has become notorious for its weak branch structure that causes trees to split apart in storms, and its aggressive invasiveness due to cross-pollination
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental landscaping and street tree; fruits are hard and astringent, mostly serving as food for wildlife rather than human consumption
Ecological Role
Provides early-season nectar for some pollinators and fruit for birds, but is widely considered an ecological threat because it crowds out native plants in open fields and forests
Similar Species
Other ornamental pear varieties and native species like wild plum (Prunus americana), which can be distinguished by different floral characteristics, bark texture, and gland presence on the petiole
Foraging Tips
Easily identified in spring by its abundant white flower clusters and in summer by its glossy, oval, alternative leaves on dense branching structures
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic; the leaves and small pome fruits are generally safe for humans and animals, though unpalatable due to texture and flavor