A naturalized fruit tree producing edible pears in the autumn, growing to around 40 ft. in height. The pear tree has a stouter profile and a narrower top than the apple tree.

BUDS: Sharp-pointed and shiny; ovoid or conical with more than four bud scales.

TWIGS: Stout with pale lenticels; hairless; leaf scars are narrow, crescent shaped, and elevated; stout spurs that may end in spines; thorns present on second-generation growth (modified branches)

BARK: Smooth and gray-brown; over time becoming scaly.

HABITAT: Moist soils near houses, roadsides, and clearings; forest borders.

RANGE: Native of Europe and Western Asia; spread across U.S. by cultivation.

USES: Pear trees have been culitvated for their fruit since ancient times. The light brown wood was once prized by French cabinetmakers.