The medlar – a journey into the past
The medlar has a long history and was already known in ancient times. The ancient Greeks and Romans valued the medlar for its unique flavor and diverse uses. It was also misused in traditional medicine, as it was believed to have healing properties.
Over time, however, the medlar increasingly fell into obscurity. Only in recent years have they experienced a small renaissance, as more and more people discover the benefits of this special fruit.
Botanical characteristics of the medlar
The medlar (botanical name: Mespilus germanica) is a small, deciduous tree or shrub that can grow up to 8 meters tall. The leaves are oblong-oval and have a slightly toothed surface. The flowers are white and appear in spring, before the leaves sprout.
What makes the medlar so special, however, is its fruit. It is round to pear-shaped and has a brown, leathery skin. Inside are 2-5 hard seeds surrounded by a soft, sweet pulp.
Taste and use of the medlar
The medlar's flavor is very distinctive and difficult to compare with other fruits. It has a slightly tart, slightly nutty note accompanied by a pleasant sweetness. Some describe the taste as a mixture of apple, pear, and quince.
To fully enjoy the medlar, you must first allow it to ripen completely. Only when the fruit has turned soft and brown does it develop its full aroma. Unripe medlars, however, are very tart and astringent.
The medlar can be used in a variety of ways. It's excellent as a fruit, but can also be processed into jam, compote, or liqueur. It also has culinary uses, for example, as an ingredient in cakes, tarts, or desserts.
Health benefits of medlar
In addition to its unique flavor, medlar also offers several health benefits. It is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and iron. It also contains phytochemicals that have antioxidant properties.
Studies suggest that regular consumption of medlars can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and support digestion. Medlars are also said to have healing effects on diarrhea and inflammation.
Cultivation and harvest of the medlar
Although the medlar is native to Germany, it is rarely cultivated these days. Only in a few regions, such as the Altes Land region in Lower Saxony, can one still find a few medlar trees.
Growing medlars is quite challenging. They require a sunny, sheltered location with well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. The trees are relatively frost-hardy but must be protected from strong winds.
Medlars are harvested in the fall, when the fruits have turned brown. They should be picked carefully by hand at this time, as they are very delicate.
Rediscovery of the medlar
In recent years, the medlar has experienced a small renaissance. More and more people are discovering the unique flavor and diverse uses of this fruit. This variety is also gaining increasing popularity in the catering and food industries.
Obstwelt, our specialty store for fruit, vegetables, and delicatessen, is dedicated to this rediscovery. We offer our customers a carefully selected selection of premium-quality medlars. Whether for consumption as fruit, for cooking, or baking – here you will find the best medlars in the region.
Let yourself be enchanted by this special fruit and discover the diversity of the medlar for yourself!