Pyrus communis Triomphe de Vienne - Pear Tree

Pyrus communis Triomphe de Vienne is an old variety of pear tree, hardy, fairly vigorous, resistant to scab, producing fruits of excellent taste, much appreciated by pear enthusiasts. The fruit is large, pear-shaped, obtuse and elongated, with a slightly bumpy surface. Its skin is slightly rough, fairly thick, bronze yellow, marbled with brown spots. Its white flesh is fine, melting, very juicy, sweet, slightly vinous, sometimes granular at its core, with few or no seeds. Harvesting takes place from early September and extends over 5 to 6 weeks. With a short shelf life, the fruits are consumed as they ripen. Pleasantly tart and rich in sugar, it is a delicious pear to enjoy fresh. 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 tree varieties nearby to improve pollination and increase the number of fruits.

Pyrus communis (Common Pear) is a fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. Present in Europe since ancient times, it originates from forests in Western Asia. Over the centuries, a very large number of cultivars have emerged. Its cultivation is widespread in Europe. The Triomphe de Vienne variety was obtained by Jean Collaud in 1864, and then propagated by Claude Blanchet, a horticulturist in Vienne, Isère (France).

The Triomphe de Vienne Pear Tree is a tree with semi-erect structure that can reach a height of 4 to 6 metres (13 to 20 feet), producing many strong and slightly arched branches. Its habit is suitable for tall forms (on a stem) or low forms (bushes) or espaliers (fan shape). 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. The fairly late flowering occurs in April-May, 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 from -2 to -3°C (28.4 to 26.6°F). It is a hardy tree that tolerates temperatures around -25°C (-13°F), and is suitable for cultivation in most regions, including at high altitudes. This Pear Tree is self-sterile or self-incompatible, the flowers cannot fertilise themselves. That is why the presence of other pear tree varieties nearby, whose flowering occurs at the same time, is necessary. For example, the varieties 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 Triomphe de Vienne Pear Tree is a high-yielding variety, with rapid fruiting. Abundant and regular fruiting begins from early September and continues until mid-October. The fruits are consumed as soon as they are harvested, as they ripen. The pear is consumed both raw and cooked, in compotes, pastries, desserts, fruit salads 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 fruits in syrup. Rich in water, the pear is refreshing and thirst-quenching. Very fleshy, it provides a great satiety. Moderately calorific, it is well endowed with potassium, calcium, and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Its content of vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and fibres make the pear a health asset. It is tonic, energising, and rehydrating. The fruits have a short shelf life, so it is preferable to consume them as they ripen. Storage can be done in a cool, sanitary place, protected from light, at a temperature around 8 to 10°C (46.4 to 50°F) or in a cold room, sealed from outside air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C (33.8 to 37.4°F).

In the category of Pear Trees, the Pyrus domestica Triomphe de Vienne is a hardy and moderately vigorous variety, resistant to scab, but susceptible to fire blight. This fruit tree likes deep soils, but fears dry, overly draining, and alkaline soils. In order to obtain fruits of good quality, 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 thanks to its fruit, the pear tree brings pleasure to young and old alike. With a wide range of varieties, it is easy to find the one that best suits your taste.