What kind of fruit is this? - Ask Extension
This fruit came from a tree that grew on a mound of dirt over the last 10 years that was not planted by me. The bark is similar to cherry bark in that...
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What kind of fruit is this? #159106
Asked October 31, 2013, 11:57 AM EDT
This fruit came from a tree that grew on a mound of dirt over the last 10 years that was not planted by me. The bark is similar to cherry bark in that has similar coloring and the random short striping on the bark. The fruit occurs in great quantity and in clusters on the tree. I tasted the fruit. It has some sweetness with a fairly strong alum aftertaste.
Shiawassee County Michigan
Expert Response
In cross section, it resembles a pome fruit (apple or pear). I lean toward calling it an Asian Pear. Pear flesh has a somewhat gritty, sandpaper texture to the taste due to tiny stone cells, apples generally have smooth flesh. The Asian pear group has members that are round like an apple, have a strong bitterness to the skin. The flesh tends to be watery and bland.
If it has stone cells then it is likely an Asian pear, but it is unusual to see them so small.
If it does not have stone cells, then it is likely a crabapple
If it has stone cells then it is likely an Asian pear, but it is unusual to see them so small.
If it does not have stone cells, then it is likely a crabapple
