Medlar is the common name of Mespilus germanica, a fruit tree of minor importance.
The medlar is native to Europe and western Asia. It is cultivated in a similar manner to apple trees. It is mostly cultivated as an ornamental currently.
Fruits are harvested in late fall and stored for a time to allow them to develop their full flavor. The flavor is best when the fruit has begun to rot slightly. In France, the medlar fruits are used in preserves.