Bradford Pear, also known as Callery Pear
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Rosales, Family: Rosaceae, Genus: Pyrus, Species: Pyrus calleryana · Rosaceae (Rose family) · Simple, deciduous leaf
Species
Pyrus calleryana
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Family
Rosaceae (Rose family)
Shape
Ovately cordate to broadly ovate with a distinctive acuminate (tapered) tip
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 small, rounded to slightly pointed teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig
Rarity
Very Common, frequently encountered as both an urban landscape tree and an aggressive invasive weed tree
Color & Pattern
Vibrant medium to bright green upper surface with lighter green undersides, turning brilliant shades of red, purple, and orange in autumn
Venation Pattern
Pinnate venation with a prominent pale midrib and a clearly visible, reticulate (net-like) secondary vein network
Texture & Surface
Glossy, smooth (glabrous) upper surface with a leathery feel and slightly wavy margins
Description
The Bradford Pear is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its dense, symmetrical, oval canopy and profuse white spring blossoms that precede leaf-out. The leaves are glossy green, leathery, and flutter distinctively in the wind due to flattened petioles. In autumn, the foliage puts on a spectacular colorful display of deep reds, purples, and oranges before dropping.
Key Features
Glossy, heart-shaped to ovate leaves with finely scalloped margins, smooth wavy edges, flattened leaf stalks, and a distinctively pointed leaf apex
Habitat
Highly adaptable, commonly found along roadsides, disturbed areas, open fields, and suburban landscapes; thrives in full sun and various soil types
Geographic Range
Native to China and Vietnam; widely planted as an ornamental across North America where it has become an invasive species
Condition Notes
The leaves appear healthy, vibrant green, and well-hydrated with glossy surfaces and minor natural variation, grading overall as Excellent health
Interesting Facts
Despite their popularity as ornamental street trees due to rapid growth and pollution tolerance, Bradford Pears have weak branch structures that make them prone to splitting in storms, and their flowers have a notoriously unpleasant odor
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental landscape and street tree; wood is occasionally used in woodworking and turning, though not commercially significant. No notable medicinal uses
Ecological Role
Considered a severe ecological threat and invasive species in many regions, crowding out native flora, though birds do consume and spread the small, hard poms
Similar Species
Can be confused with other pear species or native poplars like Eastern Cottonwood (Populus deltoides), which also have triangular-ovate leaves, but Cottonwoods have coarser teeth and lacks the glossy finish of Callery Pear
Foraging Tips
Look for dense, rounded ornamental trees in suburban areas or escaped specimens invading nearby fields, recognizable by their glossy, wavy-margined alternate leaves
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic; the leaves and small fruits are safe for humans and animals, though the fruits are hard, astringent, and unpalatable