Pyrus communis Doyenné d'hiver - Pear Tree

Pyrus communis Doyenné d'hiver  is a variety of Belgian origin characterised by the long storage of its large, excellent quality pears. It produces a fruit of large size (about 11 cm (4in) in height and 10 cm (4in) in diameter), with a rounded shape, swollen in the centre, and truncated at both ends. Its skin is light green, becoming yellow when ripe, and is quite rough, punctuated with grey-brown spots, mottled with rust, and taking on reddish hues when exposed to sunlight. Its flesh is white, semi-fine, tender, moderately juicy, very sweet, pleasantly acidic, and slightly granular in the center. Deliciously fragrant, it leaves a musky aftertaste in the mouth. The seeds are small and pale brown. Harvesting takes place from late October to late November, with the fruit reaching maturity in January and storage can be extended until April. Subtly tart and rich in sugar, it is an exquisite pear to be enjoyed fresh. When cooked, it is a variety that lends itself well to many sweet or savory 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. Excellent pollinator for other varieties. Sometimes susceptible 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 great number of cultivars have emerged. Its cultivation is widespread in Europe.

The Doyenné d'hiver variety, also known as Pentecostal Bergamot, was discovered around 1787 by Jean-Baptiste Van Mons (1765-1842) in the former Capuchin Garden in Louvain, Belgium. This pear tree forms a pyramid-shaped tree, reaching approximately 5 metres (16 feet) in height and 4 metres (13 feet) in spread at maturity, producing numerous spreading branches. Its habit is well suited to tall forms (on a standard trunk) or low forms (bush) or espalier-trained (fan). Its deciduous foliage consists of large, alternate, ovate leaves, 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) long, shiny green, turning 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 nectar-bearing. They can be destroyed by frost at temperatures below -2 to -3 °C. It is a hardy tree that withstands temperatures of around -25 °C, and is suitable for cultivation in all regions including mountainous areas. This pear tree is said to be self-sterile or self-incompatible, as the flowers cannot self-pollinate. That is why the presence of other pear varieties in proximity, flowering at the same time, is necessary. For example, the varieties Beurré Hardy, Conference, Doyenné du Comice, Jules Guyot, William's Bon Chrétien, William's Rouge are suitable for cross-pollination, thus increasing the number of fruits.

The Doyenné d'hiver Pear is a very fertile variety, with a rapid fruit set and abundant and regular fruiting. Harvesting begins from late October, and the fruits can be consumed from January as they ripen. The pear can be eaten raw or cooked, in compotes, pastries and desserts, in fruit salads or mixed salads, 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 syrup-soaked fruits. Rich in water, the pear refreshes and quenches thirst. Very fleshy, it provides great satiety. Moderately caloric, it is well endowed with potassium, calcium, and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Its content of vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and fiber makes the pear a health asset. It is invigorating, energizing, and rehydrating. The fruits can be stored for 3 to 5 months after harvesting. Storage can be done in a cool, dry place, away from light, at a temperature around 8 to 10 °C, or in a cold room, sealed off from the outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3 °C.

Very popular thanks to its fruits, the pear tree finds its rightful 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.