Pyrus communis Curé - Pear Tree

Pyrus communis 'Curé' or 'Curé' Pear is a variety that produces a very large fruit (about 9 to 12cm (4 to 5in) in height and 6 to 8cm (2 to 3in) in diameter), pear-shaped, elongated, with an irregular surface, swollen in the middle, and truncated at the base. Its thick skin is light green, turning yellowish-green at ripeness, quite rough, dotted with gray-brown, and speckled with rust at the top and around the eye. Its white flesh, slightly yellowish, is semi-fine, quite melting, juicy, very sweet, slightly acidic, and pleasantly fragrant with a hint of tartness. Harvesting takes place from late October to late November, the fruits reach ripeness in December, and they can be stored until January. It is an exquisite pear to be enjoyed cooked, in desserts, pastries, or in many sweet or savoury recipes. It is a partially self-fertile variety that requires the presence of other pear varieties nearby to improve pollination and increase the number of fruits. Resistant to scab.

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.

The 'Curé' or 'Curé' Pear variety is described under more than twenty names, varying from one region to another, such as: 'Belle de Berry', 'Belle Heloise', 'Bon Papa', 'De Clion', 'Monsieur', 'Dumas', 'De Monsieur le Curé', 'Vicaire de Winkfield', 'Belle Adrienne', 'Missive d'Hiver', 'Grosse Allongée', 'Comice de Toulon', etc. It was discovered by chance in the woods near the Château de Fromenteau in Villiers, Indre, around 1760, by Mr. Leroy, the village curé. This pear tree forms a spreading tree, reaching approximately 5m (16ft) in height and 4m (13ft) in width at maturity, producing many large branches. Its habit is well-suited to high forms (on a standard), low forms (bush), or trained forms (espalier). Its deciduous foliage consists of large leaves, 8 to 10cm (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 flowers, single, 2 to 3cm (1in) in diameter, grouped in umbels, are nectar-producing. They can be destroyed by frost at temperatures from -2 to -3°C. It is a hardy tree that can withstand temperatures around -25°C and is suitable for cultivation in many regions, including at higher altitudes. This pear tree is self-sterile or self-incompatible, as its flowers cannot self-pollinate. That is why the presence of other pear varieties nearby, which flower at the same time, is necessary. For example, the varieties 'Beurré Hardy', 'Conference', 'Doyenné du Comice', 'Jules Guyot', 'William's Bon Chrétien', and 'William's Rouge' are suitable for cross-pollination and increasing the number of fruits.

The 'Curé' or 'Curé' Pear variety is highly fertile, with quick fruiting and abundant and regular fruiting. Harvesting begins around late October, and the fruits are consumed from December to January as they ripen. A bit tart, it is less pleasant to eat raw, except in late winter when it is at its peak ripeness. When cooked, it is perfect for compotes, pastries, and desserts, as well as in red wine poached pear, as an accompaniment to savoury dishes, alongside ducks, white meats (poultry and lamb), or game. Moderately calorific, it is rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Its content of vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and fibre make the pear a health asset. It is invigorating, energizing, and hydrating. The fruits can be stored for 2 to 4 months 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, airtight to the outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C.

Very popular thanks to its fruits, the pear tree finds its place in the garden for the pleasure of young and old alike. Among a wide range of pear trees, it is easy to find the variety that best suits one's desires.