Pyrus ussuriensis

File:Pyrus ussuriensis.jpg

Pyrus ussuriensis

Pyrus ussuriensis, also known as the Ussurian pear or Harbin pear, is a species of pear native to the Ussuri valley, in the far east of Russia, and also in China and Korea. It is one of the hardiest pear species, withstanding temperatures as low as −45 °C.

Description

The Pyrus ussuriensis is a deciduous tree that grows up to 15 meters tall and 10 meters wide. The leaves are oval, 5–9 cm long and 4–8 cm broad. The flowers are white, with five petals, and are about 2–3 cm in diameter. The fruit is a pome, 2–3 cm in diameter, and is edible with a sour taste.

Cultivation

Pyrus ussuriensis is cultivated for its hardiness and edible fruit. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used in cooking. It is also used in traditional medicine in some cultures. The tree is also grown for its ornamental value, with attractive white flowers in spring.

Varieties

There are several varieties of Pyrus ussuriensis, including 'Prairie Gem', which has particularly good resistance to fire blight, and 'Ure', which has particularly good fruit quality.

Ecology

Pyrus ussuriensis is a host plant for the pear psylla, a pest that can cause significant damage to pear crops.

See also

• List of pear cultivars
• Pear psylla