Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana): Early Spring Blooms and Strong Structure

A Reliable Ornamental Tree for Many Climates

Callery pear is prized for its clustered pure white blooms in very early spring, followed by attractive broad, scallop-edged oval leaves (1½–3 inches long). The tree reaches 25–50 feet tall with a strong horizontal branching pattern.

Key Selections

• 'Aristocrat' – Pyramidal to 36 ft tall, 16 ft wide; upward-curving branches; yellow to red fall color. Susceptible to fireblight.
• 'Chanticleer' – Narrow pyramid, 40 ft tall, 15 ft wide; orange to reddish-purple fall color. Fireblight-resistant.

Growing Notes

• Type: Deciduous.
• Zones: 2–9, 14–21, 28, 31–41.
• Sun: Full sun.
• Water: Regular to moderate.
• Soil: Adaptable, even heavy clay; avoids shallow soil.
• Growth Rate: Moderate.

Improved cultivars offer better form and disease resistance than the thorny species. A sturdy, beautiful choice for streetscapes and gardens.