Medlar

Medlar (Mespilus germanica) is a heritage fruit tree with a history of cultivation stretching back to ancient Rome, and one of the few fruit trees that ripens in autumn and winter. A small, attractive deciduous tree reaching 3 to 5 metres, it produces large, solitary white flowers resembling single roses in spring, followed by unusual brown, apple-like fruit in autumn. The medlar is a curiosity rather than a high-volume cropper: the fruit must undergo a process called bletting, where it is allowed to soften and the inside flesh turns brown, before it becomes edible. In colder NZ climates a frost will naturally trigger bletting, while in milder regions the fruit simply needs to be left until fully soft. Once bletted, the flesh has a sweet, spiced, pear-like flavour and can be eaten with a spoon or made into medlar jelly. The tree is pest and disease resistant, requires minimal maintenance, and is self-fertile. It is best chosen as an ornamental tree with the fruit treated as an interesting seasonal bonus rather than a primary food crop. Available from Waimea Nurseries, Thirkettle Nurseries and Pikirangi online.