The Bradford Pear Tree Creates A Mass Of White Blooms

The Bradford Pear in zones five through nine is one of the first true signs of springs arrival. The buds of this tree specimen begin to appear in February and by March in some locations, the splendid white clusters of flowers show their beauty.

Buds On Tree

Blossoms Appear

This tree specimen loves full sun but can take partial shade. It is considered a rapid grower and will adapt to a variety of soil conditions. The tree can mature to forty to fifty feet high and anywhere from twenty five to thirty feet wide. The life expectancy is around thirty to forty years. This specimen looks fantastic along a driveway, a backdrop, along the side of sides of a house, as well as just a single planting. Look in examples of landscape designs and get some ideas for a Bradford Pear. One of the highlights of this family is seeing a series of trees in a row. The fullness of the tree with its mass of blooms, creates the image of being snow covered.

Row Of Trees

Two Full Bloom Trees

The Bradford Pear is deciduous and the bloom time usually lasts a little over a week. Once the flowers are gone, the leaves become a rich green color. This is a great shade three throughout the hot summer months. When fall arrives and many specimens show off different shades of yellow and orange, this tree highlights a landscape with deep red to purple tones.

One of the interesting aspects of this tree despite its name, it is native to China. This tree does not produce fruit and is considered an ornamental variety.

There is a draw back to the Bradford Pear. Even though it produces beautiful spring time flowers, and a great shade tree, this specimen can be bridle. Ice and snow are an enemy to this specimen. I don't recommend to my clients to plant this tree close to foundations or other outdoor features. Many of these specimens are planted in front yards. A couple of years ago in our zone seven, we had an ice storm. One of the Bradford's toppled over and a main limb broke off to within one foot of our front door. There were also a couple other of these specimens damaged.

Damaged Trunk

Tree Survived

This is one of the trees that was damaged. It amazed me how well it survived, and began to heal and produce new growth. As you can see a major lower part of the trunk was damaged. The tree now takes on an unusual shape, but still produces a wide mass of blossoms.

Close Up

Cluster Of Flowers

There is a smaller tree that is considered more durable and sturdy and is sometimes substituted for this specimen. The Cleveland Pear will also create a wonderful springtime display of flowers. The Bradford Pear is a favorite to many people. Despite its tendency to be somewhat bridle, the mass of vibrant white blossoms in spring allows you to put the winter months behind, and look forward to the warmth of the upcoming months.