Pyrus ussuriensis, commonly known as Manchurian Pear or Harbin Pear, is a deciduous tree native to the temperate regions of East Asia, including northeastern China, Korea, Japan, and the Ussuri River area of Russia. It is a hardy species, typically reaching a height of 15 meters (49 feet) and a width of 12 meters (40 feet), with a rounded and dense canopy. The Manchurian Pear is notable for its early spring blossoms, which emerge as slightly pink buds before turning to an attractive white. The flowers are showy and are followed by small, round fruits that are not particularly palatable to humans but are appreciated by wildlife after a freeze. The bark of the tree is dark and textured, adding winter interest.

The Manchurian Pear is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its beautiful spring blossoms and its ability to withstand cold temperatures, making it the hardiest of all pear trees. It is used in urban landscaping, as a street tree, and in parks for its aesthetic appeal and its resilience to urban conditions. The tree requires full sun for optimal growth and prefers well-drained loam soils, although it can tolerate a range of soil types. It is relatively low-maintenance once established but can be susceptible to fire blight, a bacterial disease that can damage flowers, shoots, and branches. Gardeners should be aware of the potential for this disease and select resistant cultivars if possible. Additionally, the tree can suffer from freeze damage in milder climates if a late frost occurs after budding.CC BY-SA 4.0