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pearthorn

Scientific Name: Crataegus perjucunda

Family: Rosaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Pear Thorn: A Multifaceted Plant

The term "Pear Thorn" encompasses several plants, highlighting the importance of using the correct scientific name for accurate identification. This article explores the various plants referred to as "Pear Thorn," including their characteristics, uses, and potential considerations.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some plants referred to as "Pear Thorn" have thorns or prickles.

Considerations for Children

  • Some plants referred to as "Pear Thorn" have thorns or prickles.

Scientific Names and Common Names

  • Several species are known as "Pear Thorn":
  • Pyrus communis 'Thorn': A specific perry pear variety.
  • Crataegus perjucunda: Also known as Pearthorn or Middlesex frosted hawthorn.
  • Crataegus tomentosa: Sometimes called Black or Pear Thorn.
  • The term "Pear Thorn" can also generally refer to any of several North American kinds of hawthorn with pear-shaped fruits, especially within the genus *Crataegus*.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Rosaceae (for Crataegus perjucunda and Crataegus tomentosa)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species (e.g., *Crataegus perjucunda*) or variety (e.g., *Crataegus tomentosa var. *pyrifolia*)
  • Synonyms/Alternative Names:
    • Crataegus calpodendron: Sometimes referred to as pear hawthorn.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Pyrus communis 'Thorn' originates from Gloucestershire, UK.
  • Some *Crataegus tomentosa* var. *pyrifolia* specimens have been found near the international boundary west of Lake Superior.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Pyrus communis 'Thorn' is an early ripening perry pear.
  • Various *Crataegus* species known as "Pear Thorn" have pear-shaped fruits.
  • Glochids or glochidia (singular &quotglochidium&quot) are hair-like spines or short prickles, generally barbed, found on the areoles of cacti in the sub-family Opuntioideae.
  • Some Prickly Pears have thorns that can be roasted off.

Ecological Role

  • Some of the *Crataegus* species are considered self-sterile and would require a pollinator.

Other Uses

  • Pyrus communis 'Thorn' is used to produce perry, a type of pear cider. The fruit must be milled quickly after harvesting.