In the coming weeks, Viles Arboretum will be removing five Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana) trees from our grounds. These trees, planted in 1986, line the edge of the Heritage Apple Orchard along the Inner Loop. And although their size and presence are striking, these trees have become invasive, outcompeting native species and posing a threat to the local ecosystem. We will be selecting one or more species of native flowering trees to take their place, providing beauty while supporting Maine's natural biodiversity.
A Brief History of the Callery Pear
The Callery Pear, originally from China, was introduced to the United States in the early 1900s as a rootstock to help combat fire blight, a bacterial disease that was ravaging pear orchards. The 'Bradford' cultivar, developed in the 1960s, quickly gained popularity for its rapid growth, showy white flowers, and resilience to urban environments. Initially believed to be sterile, the tree was widely planted across cities and suburbs.
However, it soon became clear that Bradford Pears were far from harmless. Though initially marketed as sterile, these trees can cross-pollinate with other pear varieties, producing fertile seeds that spread far beyond cultivated areas. In Maine, the Callery Pear has proven to be invasive, aggressively spreading into natural landscapes where it outcompetes native species and disrupts local ecosystems.
The Problem with Bradford Pears in Maine
What makes the Bradford Pear such a problem? These trees grow rapidly and crowd out native plants that are crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting wildlife. Native trees like serviceberry and redbud provide food and habitat for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife, while invasive species like the Bradford Pear offer little ecological value.
The pears themselves are small but numerous, and their seeds are easily spread by birds and small mammals, resulting in the proliferation of wild Callery Pears in Maine’s natural areas. Once established, these trees form dense thickets that outcompete native plants. Compounding the issue, the Bradford Pear has weak wood that makes it prone to breakage, and its blooms, though beautiful, emit a pungent odor.
Our Plan for Native Replacements
At Viles Arboretum, we are committed to fostering a healthy, sustainable environment. That’s why we’ll be replacing the Bradford Pears with one or more species of native flowering trees. Among the contenders are redbud, serviceberry, magnolia, and hawthorn—trees that are not only beautiful but also beneficial to Maine’s ecosystems.
By introducing these native species, we hope to demonstrate that homeowners and landscapers can make choices that enhance both the aesthetic and ecological value of their surroundings. Native trees support local wildlife, contribute to biodiversity, and are more resilient to regional environmental conditions.
Making the Tough Decision to Remove Trees
We understand that removing large, healthy trees can be a difficult and emotional decision. Trees often feel like permanent features of the landscape, representing history, beauty, and shade. However, when new information shows that a species is harmful to the environment, we must act responsibly.
Though the Bradford Pear may be beautiful, its long-term impact on the environment is too damaging to ignore. By replacing it with native alternatives, we are investing in the future health and resilience of our landscape and encouraging others to do the same.
A Call to Action
We encourage property owners to consider the impact their landscaping choices have on local ecosystems. Opting for native species helps protect Maine’s natural landscapes, promotes biodiversity, and ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty and ecological benefits of a healthy, balanced environment.
