Jessie Keith
Family
Rosaceae
Botanical Name
Pyrus communis 'Beurre Bosc'
Plant Common Name
Calebasse Bosc Pear, Dessert Pear, Pear
General Description
The heirloom pear ‘Beurre Bosc’ is valued for its large, elongated, conical, russet tan fruits. The tender, luscious fruit is buttery and very sweet when ripe. It is a fall bearing cultivar that has been in cultivation since the early nineteenth century. It was originally discovered in Linkebeek, near Brussels, Belgium.
Pears are beloved deciduous fruit trees that originate from Europe and Asia. They are medium-sized, have upright, pyramidal habits and thrive in most temperate regions. In spring, they produce five-petaled, white flowers that are fragrant and attract bees in droves. The sweet pears of ‘Beurre Bosc’ mature in mid- to late fall. This cultivar sets more fruit if others are nearby for cross-pollination.
Usually picked before the peak of ripeness, pears can store well with refrigeration for extended periods. Firm fruits will soften rapidly if they are placed in a brown bag with a couple of ripe bananas. Eat pears when the skin gives slightly when pressed. They taste great with sharp cheese and also make superb cakes, tarts, brandy and butter.
Pears produce best in full sun, though they can also tolerate partial sun. They prefer light, rich soils with good drainage but will tolerate heavier, clay-rich soils. Most require around 800 chilling hours to produce fruit. Most pear trees are grafted onto rootstock, which may impart a variety of characteristics to include dwarfism, disease and pest resistance, and vigor.
Plant pears as freestanding trees or train them into espaliered forms. Avoid hard pruning and fertilization because they promote fast-growing twigs that are especially susceptible to fire blight, which can disfigure and even kill the tree.
