Pyrus communis Beurré Superfin - Pear Tree

The Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin' is an old, hardy, and moderately vigorous variety, originating from Angers. It produces a medium to large-sized fruit, with a fairly round and bulging shape, and smooth skin that turns from green to yellow when ripe, with a red blush on the sunny side. Its white flesh is melting, juicy, sweet, pleasantly tart, and delicately fragrant, with few or no seeds. Harvest takes place in September, and the fruits can be eaten as soon as they are picked and can be stored until the end of October. Pleasantly tart and rich in sugar, it is a delicious pear to enjoy fresh. When cooked, it is a pear that lends itself well to many sweet or savory recipes. This variety is partially, if not weakly, self-fertile.

The Pyrus communis (Common Pear) is a fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. Present in Europe since ancient times, it originates from the forests of Western Asia. In France, pear trees appeared in the 16th century, where under the reign of Louis XIV, several species were cultivated in the king's gardens. Over the centuries, a very large number of cultivars have emerged. Its cultivation is widespread in Europe. Derived from a seed, the 'Beurré Superfin' variety was obtained in 1837 by Maurice Goubault, a nurseryman near Angers. It was introduced to the market in 1846.

The Beurré Superfin Pear forms a tree with a fairly upright framework that can reach a height of 4 to 5 meters (13 to 16 feet), producing many slightly arched branches with a spreading habit. Its habit is well-suited for tall forms (on a standard), low forms (bush), or espaliers (fan-trained). Its deciduous foliage consists of large leaves, 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) long, alternate, ovate, glossy green, turning yellow-orange in autumn. Flowering occurs in April, which generally protects it from frost. The white, single flowers, 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter, are grouped in umbels and are rich in nectar. They can be destroyed by frost from -2 to -3°C. It is a hardy tree that can withstand temperatures around -25°C, making it suitable for cultivation in all regions of France. This Pear tree is self-sterile or self-incompatible, meaning the flowers cannot self-pollinate. That is why the presence of other pear varieties, in close proximity, that flower at the same time is necessary for cross-pollination, and thus increasing the number of fruits.

The Beurré Superfin Pear is a high-yielding variety, with a relatively quick fruiting. Abundant and regular fruiting begins from early September and continues until October. The fruit can be consumed as soon as it is picked. The pear is suitable for both raw and cooked consumption, in compotes, pastries, desserts, fruit salads, or in combination with cheeses or as an accompaniment to savory dishes, alongside ducks, white meats (poultry and lamb), or game. It is also perfect for making juices or fruit syrups. Rich in water, the pear is refreshing and thirst-quenching. Very fleshy, it provides a great sense of satiety. Moderately low in calories, it is rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Its content of vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and fibers make the pear a health asset. It is invigorating, energizing, and rehydrating. The fruits can be stored for up to a month after harvesting. Storage can be done in a cool, clean place, protected from light, at a temperature around 8 to 10°C, or in a cold room, sealed off from outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C.

In the Pear category, the Pyrus domestica 'Beurré Superfin' is a variety that is not very susceptible to scab. This fruit tree likes cool and deep soils, but is not fond of excessively sandy or chalky soils. To obtain high-quality fruits, thinning should be practiced by reducing the number of fruits on the tree. Pruning for aeration, by removing some branches in the center of the tree, will provide light and give the fruits a beautiful color. This will also limit the occurrence of diseases. Very popular, thanks to its fruits, the pear tree finds its place in the garden for the enjoyment of young and old alike. With a wide range of varieties, it is easy to find the one that best suits one's desires.