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Food - It is grown for its edible fruit. Ornamental - It is used as an ornamental tree.
Central Southern Europe, Iraq
It is cultivated worldwide in temperate regions, preferring well-drained soil and full sun.
Has been cultivated for over 3,000 years.
It is a deciduous tree, growing up to 20 m tall.
Stem is rough and grayish-brown with age, with younger branches being smoother. The branching pattern is irregular, forming a rounded crown.
Leaves are simple, ovate or elliptical in shape, with a pointed tip and serrated margins. The upper surface is smooth and glossy green, while the lower surface is paler green with fine hairs. Leaves are arranged alternately on the stem.
Flowers are white, with five rounded petals and numerous stamens in the center. They are borne in clusters of 3-6 flowers at the ends of short shoots. Flowering occurs before leaves emerge.
Fruit is a fleshy pome, round or pear-shaped, depending on the cultivar. The skin can be green, yellow, or reddish-brown when mature. The flesh is white or yellowish, juicy, and sweet or slightly tart.
Flowering: February, before leaves emerge
Fruiting: August – September