Adopt or gift a Medlar tree

Scientific name: Mespilus germanica
Common name: Medlar
 

Fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family and the genus Mespilus. It is also called Germanic or European medlar and its fruit is called medlar as well. The fruits are small, round, rough-skinned, light green-gray-brown knobs, often covered with very fine hairs. They range in size from 2 to 3 cm in diameter.

Medlars, native to the Eastern world, have always been used as a remedy to ward off negativity and evil influences. The tree was a kind of "good luck charm" to be planted in the garden, and from its bloom one could tell – more or less – how the harvest would be. In fact, in past centuries it was believed that any country house that had a medlar tree in its yard could ward off witches and bad luck. Loquats are also known as the "fruit of patience" probably because in order to savor them-after harvesting-the fruit must spend some time during which it must be stored in dry places.

Typical of winter, regular consumption of medlars results in many health benefits. Medlars have high vitamin A and C content and are perfect as a satisfying snack.