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Common Pear

Pyrus communis

Last reviewed: August 2026

Common Pear (Pyrus communis)
Photo: Deborah G. Passmore / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Toxicity unknown

Common Pear (Pyrus communis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Common Pear as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

240"–600" H × 240"–480" W

Bloom

Apr, May

Pollinators

bees

Native alternatives to Common Pear

Common Pear is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Common pear is a medium to large deciduous fruit tree that produces white flowers in spring followed by edible pears in late summer. It has an upright, spreading form with glossy green leaves that turn yellow to reddish in fall.

In an HOA neighborhood

Common Pear is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, mid zone.

  • Fallen fruit can create mess if not cleaned up
  • May require regular pruning to maintain neat appearance

Wildlife value

The spring flowers attract bees and other pollinators, while the fruit provides food for birds and wildlife when allowed to ripen.

Common questions

How much sun does Common Pear need?
Common Pear grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Common Pear bloom?
Common Pear blooms in April and May.
Is Common Pear toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Common Pear as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Common Pear attract?
Common Pear draws bees.
Is Common Pear HOA-friendly?
Common Pear is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

See all plant problem guides

Ready to grow Common Pear? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Planning a bed around it? Start a free plan with this plant

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz