Look, I’m calling it: the Bradford pear has had its moment. For years, its blooms have been everywhere, but now its the turn of an even prettier native tree to take its spot – and it definitely helps that it’s a triple threat when it comes to blossoms, berries, and beautiful fall foliage!
I know, I know; it’s a big claim, especially as so many people rate the Bradford pear for its frothy white flowers, not to mention the pretty show its leaves put on when fall arrives. Still, there’s a less attractive side to Bradford pears – and I’m not just talking about the unpleasant stench its flowers put out.
That’s right, folks! As well as being notoriously unpleasant-smelling, the Bradford pear’s branches are prone to splitting, and these trees can contribute to the spread of invasive Callery pears, too. So, if you’re thinking about planting a new ornamental tree, it might be time to consider a more wildlife-friendly alternative.
A Native Tree With Four Seasons of Interest
My suggested swap for the invasive Bradford pear? Why, the serviceberry, of course!
This beautiful native tree pretty much does it all; think plenty of springtime charm in the form of beautiful blossoms, followed by delicious berries, and wrapped up nicely with some gorgeous fall foliage. And unlike Bradford pear, it’s a valuable addition to a garden that welcomes local wildlife.
Shop Serviceberry:
Serviceberry, also known as juneberry or shadbush, belongs to the Amelanchier genus. Depending on the species and variety, it can grow as a large shrub or a small tree, making it a useful option for gardens where a full-sized shade tree would be too much.
It is one of those plants that gives back much more than it takes, providing an early source of nectar and pollen for pollinators, sweet edible berries that work brilliantly in pies, jams and other homemade treats (although birds love them, too), and gorgeous fall foliage that promises to paint your yard in shades of yellow, orange and red before winter arrives.
All that from one relatively compact native tree? You’d better believe it!
One of the things I love most about serviceberry (as if all of the above weren’t reason enough to be a fan!) is that most species grow well in full sun or partial shade, making it more accessible to people with all sorts of gardens. Just be sure to pop it in a spot with well-draining soil, as they won’t appreciate sitting in waterlogged ground.
For many homeowners, this native tree is a no-brainer, because what do you mean it offers the spring flowers that made Bradford pear so popular, along with edible fruit, beautiful fall color and valuable food for wildlife? Tick, tick, tick, and tick!
While it won’t necessarily grow as quickly or have the same uniform, upright shape as a Bradford pear, I think that’s part of its appeal. And, with the world changing as quickly as it is, I think we can all agree that a garden tree should do more than look pretty for a few weeks each year.
A native beauty that gives back to local critters and puts out fruit that taste every bit as good as blueberries, then? Sign me up!
