Shipova (pear × rowan)

Shipova is a rare and fascinating intergeneric hybrid between pear and rowan. Grafted trees typically begin fruiting around year four to five. The small, yellowish fruits taste like a sweet, aromatic pear with a hint of rowan complexity — genuinely delightful eaten fresh. It is a beautiful ornamental tree as well, with white spring blossom and good autumn colour. Being uncommon, it is not always easy to source, but it is a wonderful conversation piece in a fruit collection. Largely self-fertile, though a nearby pear may improve fruit set.