Dana Hovey Pear

Originated Roxbury, Massachusetts, about 1854. Hardy, vigorous, spreading tree with white spring blooms. Moderately productive, adapts to a variety of soils.

Small, squat, and rich golden-yellow russeted skin that turns greenish-yellow at maturity. Somewhat granular but buttery, very juicy flesh. Intensely sweet, highly aromatic, spicy flavor similar to Seckel. Harvest October, stores cool and dry until December-February. Superior storage qualities compared to Seckel, less susceptible to core breakdown. 

Introduced by 19th-century fruit enthusiast Francis Dana, named "Dana's Hovey" honoring C.M. Hovey (Boston nurseryman, author of The Fruits of America). Believed to be Seckel seedling. Also called "Winter Seckel" for similarities to Seckel. Considered possibly the best eating of all winter pears. Scab resistant, relatively pest-free.