Pyrus calleryana Capital

Description:
Capital Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana 'Capital') is a narrow, deciduous tree admired for its upright form, showy white blossoms, and glossy green foliage. This columnar cultivar is ideal for tight spaces, providing vertical interest and seasonal beauty. Its compact growth habit makes it suitable for urban landscapes, privacy screens, and as an accent in mixed plantings.

Flowers:
In spring, 'Capital' produces a profusion of small, white flowers in dense clusters that cover the branches. These fragrant blossoms create a striking display and attract early-season pollinators, adding ornamental value to the tree.

Foliage:
The tree has glossy, dark green leaves that create a lush canopy through spring and summer. In autumn, the foliage turns brilliant shades of red, purple, and orange, providing a vibrant seasonal display that adds interest to the landscape.

Fruit:
After flowering, 'Capital' may produce small, rounded, inedible fruits that mature in late summer to autumn. These fruits are inconspicuous and primarily serve as a food source for birds and other wildlife.

Form and Size:
Capital has a narrow, columnar growth habit, typically reaching a height of 10 to 12 meters with a spread of only 2 to 3 meters. Its slender, upright form makes it suitable for narrow spaces, urban areas, and as a natural screen.

Growing Conditions:
This tree thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including clay and loamy soils, as long as they are well-draining. It is drought-tolerant once established and performs well in both urban and suburban environments, where it can tolerate pollution and poor soil conditions.

Uses:
'Capital' is versatile in landscaping, ideal for use as a privacy screen, street tree, or accent plant in narrow spaces. Its upright form and seasonal color changes make it a popular choice for urban landscapes, mixed borders, and adding vertical interest to garden beds.

Maintenance:
This tree is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape. Prune in late winter to remove any dead or crossing branches. It generally requires little additional care but may benefit from a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.

Notes:
Capital Callery Pear is valued for its resilience, narrow form, and seasonal beauty. Its columnar shape and vibrant autumn foliage make it a favorite for urban landscapes and gardens where space is limited.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other upright or columnar trees and shrubs, such as Juniperus (Juniper) and Taxus (Yew). It also complements ornamental grasses and low-growing perennials like Hostas, Sedums, and Heuchera for a layered, contrasting effect.

Common Name: Capital Callery Pear
Botanical Name: Pyrus calleryana 'Capital'
Family: Rosaceae
Origin: China

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