Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula' is a lovely weeping ornamental pear tree with beautiful grey-green narrow leaves that have a silver downy underside. Pretty single white flowers appear in April-May and they are popular with wildlife, such as bees and other pollinating insects. The wonderful silvery-blue foliage turns an attractive bronzed green in the autumn before falling and brown/green ornamental fruits are also produced which are eaten by birds.
This weeping silver pear pear tree will do well given any good, well-drained soil in full sun and some exposure can be tolerated. Ideal for small gardens, this ornamental pear will grow to just 4 x 4 metres in 20 years. Pyrus salicifolia 'Pendula' is a great choice where an icy grey, white, silver or blue theme is desired and it has been awarded the RHS AGM.
Our pot grown weeping silver pear trees can be planted at any time of the year. Start by removing weeds and grass within a metre of your desired planting hole. Dig a square hole as deep as your root mass and approximately 2x as wide. To help the tree establish more effectively, sprinkle root grow in the hole.
Remove the pot, gently loosen the roots and place in the planting hole. Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost, fill in the hole and firm around gently. Avoid banking the soil up around the collar of the tree. We recommend planting weeping pear trees with a stake and tie kit to ensure the roots are well anchored - instructions are in the online planting guide.
If you’re planting ornamental pears in spring or summer, water well for the first few months. Increase watering if there are extended periods of hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. Irrigation kits make it easier.
Weeping silver pear trees should be pruned during the dormant season, from autumn to early spring. Pruning requirements are minimal, focusing on damaged or awkwardly placed branches. When pruning an ornamental pear tree you should aim for a balanced all round effect. For the first several years, prune the lower branches to maintain a clear stem. Even weeping varieties need to have a clear stem to allow room for their pendulous branches.