Ussurian (Harbin) Pear

General
Scientific Name: Pyrus ussuriensis
Family: Rosaceae (Rose)
Hardiness: Zone 3
Leaves: Deciduous
Plant Type: Tree
Growth
Rate: Medium
Mature Height: <25’
Longevity: Long
Power Line: No
Ornamental
Flowers: Pink to white
Fruit: Green to yellow pears
Fall Color: Yellow

The hardiest of all pears, introduced from northeastern Asia. White flowers, semi-glossy foliage and dense, variably-rounded forms are of particular interest. The cultivars Prairie Gem® (an NDSU introduction) and Mountain Frost® are very hardy and widely adapted to North Dakota conditions. Although the largest Ussurian pear tree in North Dakota is 29 feet tall with a canopy spread of 24 feet, we still list it in the 'Short' category because it is often planted - and rightly so - beneath power lines.

Light: Full sun.
Water: Tolerates dryness.
Soil: Adaptable to many soil types.

A very handsome ornamental tree that is among the least susceptible pear trees to fireblight which is a concern with all members of the Rosaceae family.

McDermand Pear (Pyrus ussuriensis ‘McDermand’) - Released by USDA-NRCS, Plant Materials Center, Bismarck, North Dakota as a cultivar seed strain. Tough enough for open conditions such as those found in windbreaks.