Mespilus

Medlar pomes and leaves

Medlar blossom

Mespilus germanica Nefle Precoce

Mespilus canescens - Missouri Botanical Garden

Medlar pomes and leaves

Mespilus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and known for its edible fruit, commonly referred to as medlar. The genus is small, comprising only a few species, with Mespilus germanica being the most widely known and cultivated. The medlar tree is deciduous, growing to a medium size, and is notable for its attractive white flowers and unusual fruit, which are among the last to ripen in the year.

Description

Mespilus germanica trees can grow up to 8 meters in height, with a broad, spreading habit. The leaves are simple, oval, and finely toothed, providing a dense canopy of greenery. In late spring, the trees produce large, white flowers, which are hermaphroditic, meaning they have both male and female reproductive parts. These flowers are followed by the development of the fruit, which requires a period of overripening, or bletting, to become edible. The fruit is brownish, with a unique flavor that has been described as a mix between apples and dates.

Cultivation

Medlar trees are hardy and can be grown in temperate regions with minimal care. They prefer well-drained soil and a sunny position but can tolerate partial shade. The trees are also resistant to most pests and diseases, making them a low-maintenance option for orchards and gardens. Propagation is usually done by grafting, which ensures the fruit quality of the cultivar is maintained.

Uses

The fruit of the medlar tree is consumed fresh, cooked, or made into preserves after it has bletted. Bletting is a process where the fruit is allowed to overripen, softening its flesh and making it sweeter. In addition to its culinary uses, the medlar has been used in traditional medicine for its astringent properties.

Cultural Significance

The medlar has been cultivated for thousands of years, with its presence recorded in ancient texts and artworks. It was a popular fruit in medieval Europe, valued for its late harvest and storage capabilities. The fruit's unique taste and the process of bletting have made it a curiosity and a gourmet delight in modern times, though it is not as widely known or available as other fruits.

Conservation

While Mespilus germanica is not currently considered endangered, the limited genetic diversity due to its propagation methods and the decline in its cultivation for commercial purposes pose challenges for its conservation. Efforts to preserve traditional varieties and maintain genetic diversity are important for the future of the medlar as a species.