Sorbopyrus species
Family: Rosaceae
What it is like
Sorbopyrus species is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in leaf from May to November, in flower in April, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Height (m): 10
Where it is found
Not known in the wild.
A bi-generic hybrid of garden origin.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 3
Fruit - raw or cooked.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in a well-drained moisture-retentive soil in an open sunny position. Succeeds in light shade but fruits less well in such a position. This species is a bi-generic hybrid of garden origin between a Sorbus species and Pyrus communis.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe if this is possible, otherwise in late winter. The plant produces very little fertile seed, and this does not breed true, though some interesting plants might be produced. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Grafting is the best method of propagating this plant. This is best carried out in early spring, though budding can be carried out in the summer.
Best place to grow:
Habit: Tree
Hardiness: 4-8
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist