Pyrus communis Beurre Hardy - Pear Tree

The Beurre Hardy Pear is a very hardy variety, suitable for all climates up to an altitude of 800 m (2625ft) if exposed to the sun. While it may take some time to bear fruit, it is very productive afterwards. It produces rounded fruits with smooth, bronze-green skin. Their flesh is fine and juicy, white, very sweet, with a powerful and delicious fragrance that has made its reputation. Harvest takes place in September and October. The Beurre Hardy Pear is not self-fertile.

The pear tree is native to central Asia and has been cultivated in China for 6,000 years. It was introduced to Europe around the 6th century. Although its development during the Middle Ages remained limited, there were already 200 varieties by the Renaissance. Since then, the number of varieties has continued to increase. The Beurre Hardy Pear is a pear variety obtained from a chance seedling by Mr. Bonnet in Boulogne-sur-Mer in 1820. It has since become renowned for the taste quality of its pears.

Although not frost-tolerant, the Beurre Hardy Pear will still appreciate protected and sunny locations, so avoid frost-prone and windy situations. Easy to grow, it likes damp and deep soils, but dislikes excessively draining and chalky soils. In winter, add a shovelful of wood ash, rich in potash, which will improve flowering and fruit quality. Its spreading habit gives it a tall silhouette with a trunk, then spreading harmoniously. This habit facilitates harvest and naturally improves the tree's ventilation, making it less susceptible to diseases. Its oval-shaped leaves, finely toothed on the edges, have a petiole as long as the lamina and measure about 8 to 9 cm (3 to 4in). Its late white flowering in April protects it from frosts. Its flowers are formed by 5 white petals. They are not self-fertile. It is therefore necessary to plant another pear tree nearby. Its main pollinators are the varieties William's, Conference, Doyenne du Comice, and Louise Bonne. This variety produces rounded fruits with smooth, bronze-green skin. Their flesh is fine and juicy, white, very sweet, with a powerful and delicious fragrance that has made its reputation.

Pears can be consumed fresh, in syrup, in pastries, in jams and compotes, and can be used to make alcoholic beverages...