The I Love This Plant for this week is Pyrus salicifolia ‘Pendula‘ or weeping willow-leaf pear. I first saw this plant some years ago at the Chicago Botanic Garden and I stood looking at it, thinking, “I want one”. Four years ago I ordered this weeping willow-leaf pear from Forest Farm and I kept it in a pot until we moved to Poison Ivy Acres. Now it is planted and spreading its roots…it even had small green pears on it this summer. The silver foliage and weeping form are what this tree is all about – it’s a good specimen or focal point in the garden, and good in front of evergreens for contrast. Plant this small tree in full sun where it will grow between ten and fifteen feet tall and wide. The downside? In some areas this tree is prone to Fireblight – not a disease we see frequently in my area, and it’s a good thing because I do Love this plant! Pyrus salicifolia ‘Pendula‘
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