The Bradford Pear, Is It Really Invasive?

The Bradford Pear tends to be the focal point for many homes and are invasive right here in our backyards.

The Callery Pear (Bradford Pear) has beautiful white flowers when it blooms in the spring, but is this tree invasive? The answer is yes, yes it is. States like Ohio and South Carolina, have actually passed laws prohibiting the planting of this tree and we expect more states to follow suit. Why? In the early 1980s and 90s, this was the most sought-after tree at every nursery. In fact, the US Department of Agriculture scientists created the Bradford Pear, believing that these trees would improve our landscapes. Instead they have caused an environmental time bomb which, unfortunately, has now exploded.

The Bradford Pear, once thought to be a gift from above cloned by the gazillion to become the street tree of America, is now taking over acres upon acres of precious woodlands. In fact, I remember buying and planting these trees everywhere because — at the time — it was the ideal tree. The Bradford Pear was upright and symmetric in silhouette, it exploded with white flowers when such beauty was most needed in early spring, and in the fall, the leaves turn vibrant crimson, maroon, and orange shades. This tree was thought to be disease resistance and it flourished in poor soil — wet, dry, acidic, or alkaline.

The weak branches and crotch can split and cause damage to the trees and property.

However, this tree which once was sought after by many architects and landscapers, has crossed over to something dark. On top of claiming land meant for other trees, the Bradford Pear has turned from thornless to spiky, limber to brittle with a weak branch bark union and, worst of all, became invasive. The Bradford Pear is now an ecological nightmare, destined to continue its spread for decades. Generations yet to be born will come to hate this tree. At Donegan’s Tree Service, we recommend complete removal of any Bradford Pears to help reduce the relentless spread of this invasive tree. If you are enchanted by the white flowers that bloom in the spring, we recommend planting an American Elderberry, a Yellowwood, or a Carolina Silverbell to fill that desire and protect our woodlands. While the Callery Pear was introduced to the world with best intentions, it now seems that a plague is truly upon us.

Have questions? Need help with your tree care? Call or email us today!

Written by James Donegan