Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’ – Capital Flowering Pear

Botanical Name: Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’

Alternate Name: Callery Pear ‘Capital’, Capital Pear, Capital Ornamental Pear

The Capital Flowering Pear (Pyrus calleryana ‘Capital’) is a narrow, ornamental pear tree. This flowering tree is a cultivar of the species Pyrus calleryana (Callery Pear) that is native to Taiwan and China. This cultivar is a small, thornless deciduous tree with a uniform, symmetrical, upright, columnar form. It grows to a height of 25-35 feet with a spread of 8-12 feet.

The leaves of the Capital Pear tree are glossy, dark green, and oval or heart-shaped. They are 3 inches in length with wavy margins. The foliage display in the fall is beautiful, turning deep red and purple.

The flowers arrive in mid spring, covering the crown in a profusion of creamy-white flowers with 5 petals. The fruits follow the flowers in late summer. They are showy yellow pears that are attractive to birds and wildlife.

The Capital Flowering Pear is adaptable to different environmental conditions. Since it can tolerate some drought once established and also urban pollution, it makes a good street tree. Its narrow form makes it suitable for use in smaller landscapes, lining walkways or driveways, or providing screening between properties.

The Capital Pear can be susceptible to fireblight. Like other Pyrus calleryana cultivars, it can be at risk for branches breaking in storms and under the weight of snow or ice. However, the Capital Pear cultivar is stronger than other cultivars, such as ‘Bradford’.