This Popular Tree Can No Longer Be Sold in Ohio

Much to the relief of native Ohio plants and human noses everywhere, the Callery pear can be bought in Ohio no longer.

According to the Ohio Department of Agriculture’s new law as of January 1, 2023, the Callery pear tree has been added to the list of plants illegal to sell, grow, or plant in Ohio due to its invasiveness. The species of tree is known for it’s ability to outcompete other, native plants and trees in the state. Via the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website, the Callery pear was introduced to North America from Asia in the early 1900s for agricultural use, and quickly became a landscaping favorite due to its adaptability and distinct white flowering, among other reasons.

Callery pear trees are one of the most common street trees in NYC, and they’re all blossoming! Get to know the Callery pears in your neighborhood by exploring our NYC Street Tree Map: https://t.co/YlkH3xlR0r. #SignsofSpringNYC pic.twitter.com/mWGmfQMTEF

— NYC Parks (@NYCParks) March 25, 2020

The tree is also known for its unique and unpleasant smell, often being compared to that of rotten fish.

The ODNR recommends these species as possible alternatives to Callery pear, as they are native to the eastern United States:

Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)
eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis)
chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)
American plum (Prunus americana)
flowering dogwood (Cornus florida)
eastern hophornbeam (Ostrya virginiana)
American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana)
yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea)
hawthorn (Crateagus spp.)
blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica)

Do you enjoy the Callery pear tree, or will you be glad to see its numbers dwindle?