In one of their recent Canterbury projects, Epic Landscape Design incorporated the striking Pyrus calleryana ‘Slim Jim’, a new introduction to the plant industry. Known for its narrow, columnar form, ‘Slim Jim’ adds modern elegance and structure to any landscape, making it perfect for driveways, pathways, or tighter spaces. It’s exciting to see forward-thinking designers embracing new plants. With Leafland supplying the ‘Slim Jim’ trees, it’s great to see New Zealand landscapers embracing new plants to meet the demands of modern gardens — narrower spaces, contemporary designs, and the changing housing landscape.
Pyrus calleryana ‘Slim Jim’ is a narrow, upright pear tree that works well in tighter spaces where a broader tree might not fit. Its glossy green leaves keep a tidy appearance through the growing season, then in spring it produces lovely white blossoms, followed by vibrant orange autumn colour. Its columnar form makes it ideal for lining pathways or framing entrances. A hardy and low-maintenance tree, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, adapts well to a range of soil types, and requires minimal pruning. This particular cultivar, ‘Slim Jim’, was bred by Big Jim’s Garden Centre in New Plymouth, offering a modern, compact alternative to traditional Ornamental Pear trees for both residential and commercial landscapes.
For more details on Pyrus calleryana ‘Slim Jim’ — including sizes, growth habits, and availability — you can check it out on the product page.
It’s exciting to see new plants like Pyrus calleryana ‘Slim Jim’ finding their place in landscapes across New Zealand. This Canterbury project by Epic Landscape Design shows how thoughtful plant selection can bring shape, structure, and seasonal interest — and why noticing new plants coming into the industry is always worthwhile. Full credit to the Epic Landscape Design team for the project’s design, installation and photography.
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