Pyrus communis Dubbele Philip - Pear Tree

The Dubbele Philip or Beurré de Mérode Pear is an old variety of Belgian pear, hardy and vigorous, forming a tree with a pyramidal crown. It produces large, round and stocky fruit. Its skin is smooth, fairly thin, yellow-green, heavily punctuated and marbled with brown spots, taking on reddish tones on the sunny side. Its white flesh is slightly coarse, crisp and acidic when unripe, then juicy, sweet and melting as it ripens. Harvesting takes place from mid-September to mid-October, as the fruits ripen. They do not keep for long and should be consumed immediately after picking. Pleasantly acidic and rich in sugar, it is a delicious pear to enjoy on its own. When cooked, it is a variety that lends itself well to 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.

Pyrus communis (Common Pear) is a fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. It has been present in Europe since ancient times and is native to the forests of Western Asia. Its cultivation is widespread throughout Europe. The Dubbele Philip variety, also known as Beurré de Mérode, Double Philippe, Doyenné de Mérode, Doyenné Boussoch or Dubbele Flip, was obtained by Jean-Baptiste Van Mons in Belgium around 1800 and dedicated to Count de Mérode.

The Dubbele Philip Pear is a tree with an upright crown that can reach a height of 4 to 6 metres (13 to 20 feet), producing numerous slightly arched and trailing branches. Its habit is suitable for high forms (on a stem) or low forms (bush) or trained forms (fan). Its deciduous foliage is composed of large leaves 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) long, alternate, ovate, 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 rich in nectar. They can be destroyed by frost from -2 to -3°C (28.4 to 26.6°F). It is a hardy tree that can withstand temperatures of around -25°C (-13°F) and is suitable for cultivation in most regions. This Pear tree is said to be self-sterile or self-incompatible, as the flowers cannot self-pollinate. This is why the presence of other pear varieties in close proximity, whose flowering occurs at the same time, is necessary. The varieties Clapp's Favorite, Charneux, Conference, Doyenné du Comice, Beurré Hardy, Louise Bonne d'Avranches, Passe-Crassane, Williams, William's Rouge are suitable for cross-pollination and thus increase the number of fruits.

The Dubbele Philip Pear is a high-yielding variety, with fairly rapid fruiting. The fruiting, abundant and regular, begins from mid-September and continues until mid-October. The pear can be enjoyed raw or cooked, in compotes, pastries and desserts, in fruit or mixed salads, in combination with cheeses or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes, alongside duck, white meats (poultry and lamb) or game. It is also perfect for making juices or syrup-soaked fruits. Rich in water, the pear is refreshing and thirst-quenching. Very fleshy, it provides a great feeling of satiety. Moderately caloric, it is rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Its content of vitamins C and E, antioxidants and fibre makes the pear a health asset. It is invigorating, energising and rehydrating. Since the fruits do not keep well, it is best to enjoy them as they ripen.

In the Pear Trees category, Pyrus domestica Dubbele Philip is a hardy and vigorous variety, moderately resistant to scab. This fruit tree likes cool and deep soils, but dislikes 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 ventilation, by removing some branches in the centre of the tree, will provide light and give the fruits a beautiful colour. This will also limit the occurrence of diseases. Very popular thanks to its fruit, the pear tree finds its 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 your tastes.