Bosc European Pear

Moderately vigorous growth, pyramidal upright spreading crown. Needs annual pruning to remove old branches and divert overhanging fruiting branches. Forms long fruit shoots, does not branch densely, best to prune several times in first few years to encourage strong supporting branches. Large vigorous tree, bears huge crops annually even in old age, good pollinator for other varieties. Not self-fertile.

Fragrant creamy white flowers late midseason mid-spring, draped in clusters along branches. Classic shapely pear, distinctive gourd-like shape and long neck makes easily distinguishable from others. Medium to large elongated long-necked fruit. Dark rich yellow to yellow-brown completely covered with cinnamon-brown russet, heavy russeting, warm cinnamon color, typical yellow-brown russeting makes easy to distinguish. Firm juicy white flesh, melting juicy tender white flesh, dense and juicy, rich buttery flavor, distinctive sweet rich spicy buttery flavor, pleasant aroma, smooth texture, creamy white flesh.

Belgian/French cultivar from early 1800s. Longtime favorite, still widely grown. Popular choice alongside Anjou as winter pear more tolerant of cold than Bartlett. Susceptible to fire blight. Moderately susceptible to scab in certain locations and stony pit virus. Wood sensitive to frost but blossom usually resistant to late frosts. Sensitive to high copper or sulphur.