Tennessee, along with other states, has been overrun by the invasive Pyrus calleryana, commonly known as the 'Bradford pear' or 'Callery pear' trees (including all its cultivars). They are native to east Asia but most commonly from China, Vietnam, north, and South Korea.

These trees are frequently criticized for emitting odors resembling 'fish,' 'dumpster,' and 'semen.'

They have been displacing our native species of shrubs and trees. As well as cross pollinating with other pear tree species that aren’t invasive.

They spread through birds ingesting their fruits and dispersing seeds through droppings. Consequently, when present in yards, birds distribute them to untouched forests, making it challenging for native plants to compete.

Every wildlife agency agrees that these trees are a pest and recommend that you should not plant one as it is. But it needs to be enforced not only suggested.

Efforts that are necessary to stop the spread:
•If residents have them in their yards, they should allow the state to confirm the exact species and have it removed. Adopt a replacement policy to encourage more residents to grow native trees.

•Ban the sell, distribution, and ownership of Bradford pears and all its cultivars

•Any Bradford pear or it’s cultivars growing in public property must be eradicated