Pyrus communis Saint Rémy - Pear Tree

Pyrus communis Saint Rémy is an ancient variety of Belgian pear, hardy and vigorous, producing long-lasting fruits, greatly appreciated for cooking. The fruit is large, pear-shaped, ovoid, and spinning top-shaped. Its skin is semi-rough, quite thick, greenish-yellow, marbled with brown spots, turning pinkish on the sunny side when ripe. Its white flesh is semi-fine, firm to crunchy, sweet and tart, turning reddish-pink after cooking. Harvest takes place in October as the fruits ripen, and they can be consumed immediately after picking and stored until March. Pleasantly tart, rich in sugar and firm in texture, it is known for its qualities as a cooking pear. It is well-suited for 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. Over the centuries, a very large number of cultivars have emerged. Its cultivation is widespread throughout Europe. The Saint Rémy variety was obtained by M. Lequarré in Herve, Belgium, in 1838, and was only commercialised in 1882.

The Saint Rémy Pear Tree is a tree with semi-erect branching that can reach a height of 4 to 6 metres (13 to 20 feet), producing several slightly arched branches. Its habit is well-suited for tall forms (standard), low forms (bush), or trained forms (fan or espalier). 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 flowers, single, 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter, grouped in umbels, are nectar-bearing. They can be damaged by frost from -2 to -3°C. It is a hardy tree that can withstand temperatures as low as -25°C 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. That is why the presence of other pear varieties, flowering at the same time, is necessary. The varieties Comtesse de Paris, Conference, Doyenne du Comice, Beurre Hardy, Beurré Clairgeau, Louise Bonne, Passe-Crassane, Williams, and William's Rouge are suitable for cross-pollination, thus increasing the number of fruits.

The Saint Rémy Pear Tree has a high yield and bears fruit fairly quickly. Abundant and regular fruiting begins in early October and continues throughout the month. The fruits can be consumed as they ripen after harvest. Pears can be eaten raw or cooked, in compotes, pastries, and desserts, in fruit salads or mixed salads, paired with cheeses or served alongside savoury dishes such as duck, white meats (poultry and lamb), or game. They are also perfect for making juices or preserved fruits in syrup. Rich in water, pears are refreshing and thirst-quenching. Very fleshy, they provide a great sense of satiety. Moderately calorific, they are rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Their content of vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and fibres make pears a health asset. They are invigorating, energising, and rehydrating. The fruits can be stored until March. Storage can be done in a cool, dry place, protected from light, at a temperature around 8 to 10°C, or in a cold room, sealed from outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C.

In the Pear Trees category, Pyrus domestica Saint Rémy is a hardy and vigorous variety, resistant to scab, and somewhat susceptible to fire blight. This fruit tree prefers deep soils but is not suitable for dry, excessively draining, and alkaline 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 centre of the tree, will provide light and give the fruits a beautiful colour. This will also limit the occurrence of diseases. Very popular for 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 taste.