Pyrus communis Beurré d’Amanlis - Pear Tree

The Pyrus communis Beurré d'Amanlis is an old, hardy and vigorous variety. It produces a medium to large-sized fruit, more or less elongated or swollen, with thin skin, pale yellow-green punctuated with grey, taking on red hues when exposed to sunlight. Its cream-white flesh is moderately fine, melting, juicy, sweet, slightly acidic and deliciously fragrant. Harvesting takes place in September, and the fruits can be consumed as soon as they ripen. Pleasantly acidic and rich in sugar, it is a delicious pear to enjoy as is. When cooked, it is a variety that lends itself well to many sweet or savoury recipes. This Pear tree prefers sunny exposure in well-draining, cool, deep, rich and non-calcareous soil. It is a partially self-fertile variety that requires the presence of other pear tree varieties nearby to improve pollination and increase the number of fruits.

The Pyrus communis (Common Pear tree) is a fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. Present in Europe since ancient times, it originates from forests in Western Asia. In France, pear trees appeared in the 16th century, when several species were cultivated in the king's gardens during the reign of Louis XIV. Over the centuries, a vast number of cultivars have emerged. Its cultivation is widespread in Europe. The variety Beurré d'Amanlis, also known as Amanlis Butterbirne, Delbart, Hubart, Kaissoise, Thiessoise, Wilhelmine, was discovered in Amanlis, a small village near Rennes and distributed in 1826. However, its origin is controversial; it may be a creation by Van Mons (Belgian botanist) dating back to 1823.

The Beurré d'Amanlis Pear forms a tree with a somewhat upright frame reaching 4 to 5 metres (13 to 16 feet), producing many large, slightly arched branches with a spreading habit. Its habit is well suited to tall forms (standard), low forms (bush) or trained forms (espalier). Its deciduous foliage consists of large, alternate, ovate, shiny green leaves that turn yellow-orange in autumn. Flowering occurs in April, which generally protects it from frost. The white flowers, single, 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter, grouped in umbels, are nectariferous. They can be destroyed by frost from -2 to -3°C. It is a hardy tree that can withstand temperatures around -25°C and is suitable for cultivation in all regions of France. This Pear tree is considered self-sterile or self-incompatible, as the flowers cannot self-pollinate. That is why the presence of other pear tree varieties blooming at the same time is necessary. For example, the varieties Beurré Clairgeau, Conference, Doctor Jules Guyot, Williams, Passe Crassane, and Précoce de Trévoux are suitable for cross-pollination, increasing the number of fruits.

The Beurré d'Amanlis Pear is a high-yielding variety with a relatively rapid fruiting period. Abundant and regular fruiting begins in early September and continues until October. The fruit can be consumed as soon as it is harvested. The pear can be eaten raw or cooked in compotes, pastries, desserts, fruit salads, cheeses, or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes, alongside ducks, white meats (poultry and lamb), or game. It is also perfect for making juices or preserved fruits. Rich in water, the pear is refreshing and thirst-quenching. Very fleshy, it provides a great sense of satiety. Moderately caloric, it is rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Its vitamins C and E content, antioxidants, and fibre make the pear a health asset. It is invigorating, energizing, and rehydrating. Since the fruits have a short shelf life, it is preferable to enjoy them as they ripen.

The Pyrus domestica Beurré d'Amanlis is a hardy and vigorous variety but susceptible to scab. This fruit tree prefers cool and deep soils, while it dislikes excessively draining and calcareous soils. To obtain high-quality fruits, thinning should be practised by reducing the number of fruits on the tree. Removing branches in the tree's centre and pruning for air circulation will provide light and give the fruits a beautiful colour. This will also limit the occurrence of diseases. Very popular thanks to its fruits, the pear tree finds its rightful place in the garden for the pleasure of young and old alike. With a wide range of varieties, it is easy to find the one that best suits one's desires.