Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' - The Ornamental Pear

Common Name

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital', also known as the Ornamental Pear, is a popular ornamental tree known for its attractive white flowers and glossy green leaves.

Genus and Species

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' is a cultivar of the Callery Pear tree.

Uses

The Ornamental Pear is commonly used as a street tree, park tree, and also in urban landscapes. It is also a popular choice for residential gardens and commercial properties.

Mature Height and Width

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' can grow up to 20-25 meters in height and 15-20 meters in width.

Growth Rate

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' is a fast-growing tree, capable of reaching its mature height and width within 15-20 years.

Foliage and Bark

The leaves of Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' are glossy and dark green in color. The bark is smooth and gray in color.

Flowers

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' is known for its profuse, showy white flowers that appear in the spring before the leaves.

Evergreen or Deciduous

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' is a deciduous tree, meaning that it loses its leaves in the fall.

Maintenance

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' requires regular watering, pruning, and fertilization to maintain its shape and size.

Soil Type

Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.

How to plant

• The best time to plant Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' is during the dormant season, typically fall or early spring.
• When planting, the hole should be at least 2-3 times the width of the root ball and just as deep.
• The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
• Water the tree well after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

Ideal location

• Pyrus calleryana 'Capital' prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
• It is also tolerant of urban conditions such as pollution and compacted soil.

Care and maintenance

• Water your Ornamental Pear regularly, especially during its first year, to help it establish a strong root system.
• Fertilize your tree with a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in mid-summer.
• Prune your tree in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to control its shape and size.

Benefits

• Profuse showy white flowers in the spring before leaves.
• Provides shade and reduces the urban heat island effect.
• Increases property value.