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Bradford pear
The bradford pear is native to China but is considered invasive in the U.S. and Australia. Although it does not self-pollinate, it can become invasive by hybridizing with other plants to create fertile fruits that may seed in natural areas. The bradford pear creates large populations of fruits that are spread by birds and animals, readily rooting in disturbed areas. It also forms thick colonies that may compete with other native species for natural resources. Alternative plants include the Trident Maple and the Serviceberry. The bradford pear can be controlled by manually pulling young plants, and a range of herbicides such as oil-based herbicides, foliar herbicides, and both basal bark and stump treatments. It is important to remove seed sources as the weed can reinvade areas where it has been previously removed.
Scientific classification
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Toxic to Pets
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Spring
Bloom Time
Spring
Harvest Time
5 m to 8 m
Plant Height
6 m to 9 m
Spread
Green, Red
Leaf Color
1.5 cm to 2.5 cm
Flower Size
Brown, Copper
Fruit Color
White
Flower Color
Brown
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf type
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring
Growth Season
Rapid
Growth Rate

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Distribution of Bradford pear

Distribution Map
Bradford pear is native to East Asia, from China east to Japan, where it grows in forests and meadows. It has also been planted throughout North America as an ornamental tree. However, it has been listed as invasive in several US states.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Thickets, streamsides, slopes, plains, mixed valley forests
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use
Bradford pear is common in many home and public gardens, prized for its luscious white flowers and attractive foliage. Gardeners who like to attract pollinators or simply like an easy and fast-growing flowering ornamental tree typically go for bradford pear. Often grown in cottage and courtyard gardens, it works well when planted with dwarf lilac, African marigolds, and clover.
Symbolism
Lust, Love, resilience
Interesting Facts
Bradford pear cultivars, and especially "Bradford," have been widely used in landscaping, with their pleasingly symmetrical canopy and decorative interest throughout various different seasons. In spring, the canopy is adorned with white flowers, while in autumn the leaves turn deep red.
Name Story
Callery pear: Although it produces an unpleasant odor when it blooms, the tree filled with its white blossoms creates a spectacular view, and so it is planted widely. The tree is named the Callery pear in memory of the French man, Joseph Marie Callery, who brought the plant from China to Europe.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Bradford pear, including the following common varieties :

Toxicity

Bradford pear has mild toxicity to cats and dogs, primarily if seeds are consumed in high amounts. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Immediate veterinary care is crucial if ingesting seeds is suspected to manage adverse effects and ensure the pet's well-being. Owners must prevent pets from accessing areas with bradford pear seeds.
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Quickly Identify Bradford pear

1
Distinctive bark transitions from light brown to reddish-brown to light gray, ridged and furrowed.
2
White-pubescent young twigs ripen to smooth, shiny brown, potentially bearing thorns.
3
Dark green, glossy, ovate leaves with crenate, wavy margins, and paler undersides.
4
White, 5-petaled flowers of 0.75 to 1 inch (1.9 to 2.5 cm) in diameter.
5
Fruits are small spheres, yellowish-green to brown, measuring 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) in diameter.
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Care Guide for Bradford pear

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
5 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Bradford pear, native to Asia, thrives with moderate moisture and can withstand brief droughts. Water every 1-2 weeks, ensuring soil dries slightly. This ornamental tree, known for its spring blooms, adapts to urban settings but benefits from extra water during extended dry periods.
Fertilize: For bradford pear, use balanced nutrition fertilizers in early spring and mid-fall to encourage growth. Apply a slow-release formula carefully, avoiding over-fertilization. Water after application for better absorption, adjust quantities as bradford pear matures, and adhere to label instructions for best results.
Pruning: Bradford pear features dense foliage and a pyramidal shape. Annual pruning in early spring involves removing weak or crossed branches to improve airflow and health. Thinning crowded areas minimizes disease risk, while eliminating vertical shoots and suckers promotes vigorous growth and enhances flowering.
Propagation: Bradford pear, native to China and Vietnam, is valued ornamentally. It can be propagated through division during transplanting, ensuring each section has sufficient roots and shoots. This method minimizes trauma, promoting healthier growth and maintaining the parent plant's desirable characteristics.
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