European Pear Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin' (D)
ABOUT
Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin,' commonly known as the European pear, is a variety recognized for its delightfully structured appearance. The plant showcases glossy green foliage that forms an attractive backdrop for its notable fruit. The leaves are generally oval with a point at the tip and finely serrated edges, providing a lush and vibrant texture to the plant. As for the starring attraction, the fruit itself, the European pear bears a typical pear shape, which is broad at the base and tapers to a narrow neck. The skin of the 'Beurré Superfin' variety is usually smooth with a yellowish-green hue that may develop a blush when exposed to direct sunlight. The flesh inside is known for its delicate texture and sweetness, making it a favourite among pear varieties. Flowering occurs in early to mid-spring, where the plant is adorned with white blossoms that stand out against the dark foliage. These flowers are usually five-petaled and form clusters that can be quite fragrant, attracting pollinators to the garden. As the seasons change, the foliage may take on a warm, autumnal tone before falling off as winter approaches. Though the appearance of the plant alone is quite ornamental, it is primarily cultivated for its palatable fruit that ripens during the late summer or early fall, offering a seasonal harvest. Overall, the European pear presents itself as a graceful plant with a bounty that is both visually appealing and gastronomically appreciated.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
European Pear, Common Pear
Common names
Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question is commonly known as the Pear. Pears, including the variety known as 'Beurré Superfin', are not toxic to humans if consumed. The fruit is widely eaten and enjoyed for its sweet taste without adverse effects. However, the seeds of pears contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized. Ingesting large quantities of crushed or chewed seeds can potentially cause cyanide poisoning. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include nausea, headache, dizziness, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, and can even be life-threatening in severe cases. It's important to note that poisoning from ingesting pear seeds is extremely rare, because a person would have to consume a very large quantity of seeds to experience toxic effects.
To pets
The plant commonly known as the Pear, including the 'Beurré Superfin' variety, is generally considered safe for pets as the fruit flesh does not contain toxic compounds. However, the seeds, stems, and leaves of the pear tree contain amygdalin, which can be harmful if ingested in large quantities. Amygdalin is a compound that can release cyanide when digested. If pets consume a large number of seeds, they could potentially suffer from cyanide poisoning. Symptoms in pets can include dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, panting, shock, and in severe cases, it could be fatal. It is highly advisable to prevent your pets from eating the seeds, stems, or leaves of pear trees to avoid any risk of poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
10 25ft (3 7.6m)
Spread
10 20ft (3 6.1m)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The European Pear provides aesthetic appeal with its attractive shape, foliage, and blossoms.
- Fruit Production: It yields edible pears that are enjoyed fresh, cooked, or preserved.
- Wildlife Attraction: The tree's flowers attract pollinators like bees, while its fruit can attract birds and other wildlife.
- Shade Provider: With its canopy, it offers shade in landscapes and gardens during hot seasons.
- Seasonal Interest: It displays seasonal changes from blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, to potentially colorful leaves in autumn.
- Erosion Control: The tree's root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
- Cultural Significance: The European Pear has historical and cultural importance in many regions, often associated with traditions and cuisines.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Wood Crafting: The wood of the pear tree can be used for high-quality woodworking projects, including furniture and musical instruments, for its fine grain and robustness.
- Dye Production: The bark of the pear tree can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or artwork, often resulting in subtle earth-toned colors.
- Smoking Food: Pear wood chips can be used for smoking meats, imparting a sweet, fruity flavor that is milder than other fruitwoods like apple or cherry.
- Garden Design: The pear tree's attractive form and blossoms make it a desirable ornamental tree in landscape design, enhancing the aesthetic of gardens and parks.
- Natural Sweetener: Pear juice can be concentrated into a syrup and used as a natural sweetener in cooking, baking, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles.
- Crafting Material: Fallen pear tree leaves and twigs can be gathered and used in crafting projects, such as making wreaths or as decorative elements in homemade paper.
- Photography: The beautiful blossoms and fruit of the pear tree offer photographers and artists alike a picturesque subject for still life and nature photography.
- Culinary Art: Thinly sliced pear pieces from the tree can be used in garnishing and adding a creative touch to gourmet dishes, both for flavor and presentation.
- Education: The pear tree can serve as a teaching tool for horticultural and botanical studies, helping students to learn about plant biology, pollination, and fruit development.
- Wildlife Habitat: Pear trees can provide food and shelter for various bird species, beneficial insects, and small mammals, contributing to local biodiversity.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe European Pear is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe European Pear is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Prosperity: The pear, often associated with the fruit borne by Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin', is a symbol of prosperity in various cultures due to its sweet taste and the fact that the fruit can be a sign of a good harvest.
- Longevity: Pears can have a long shelf life compared to other fruits which has led to them being seen as a symbol of longevity and even immortality in some mythologies.
- Abundance: A pear tree laden with fruit is a visual representation of abundance and fertility, making this plant a symbol for richness in life and potentially in family dynamics.
- Generosity: The giving of a pear or the sharing of this delectable fruit has come to represent generosity and the act of giving within one's community.
- Wisdom: In some cultural narratives, the pear can represent knowledge and wisdom, as fruit in general often holds this symbolism due to the allegorical 'fruits of wisdom' concept.
WaterThe common name for Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin' is European pear. When watering European pear trees, it's crucial to provide them with deep, infrequent waterings to encourage deep root development. Water newly planted trees weekly with about 2 to 3 gallons of water. For established trees, increase the amount to around 5 gallons every two weeks during the growing season, tapering off in the fall. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings, but not to the point of causing stress to the tree.
LightEuropean pear trees thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for planting a European pear tree is in a location where it can receive unobstructed sunlight. Avoid planting in shaded areas, as insufficient light can impede growth and fruit production.
TemperatureEuropean pear trees, like the European pear, prefer temperate climates and can endure winter cold, with a general survival range between -20°F and -30°F (minimum temperature). However, the ideal growing temperature during the growing season is between 65°F and 75°F. Sudden temperature fluctuations, particularly spring frosts, can damage the tree's blossoms and affect fruit set.
PruningPruning a European pear tree is essential for maintaining tree health, promoting good air circulation, and encouraging fruit production. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out dense areas to allow sunlight to reach the inner parts of the canopy. Young trees should be pruned to establish a strong framework, while mature trees are pruned to maintain their shape and remove overly vigorous growth.
CleaningNot needed
SoilThe European pear ('Beurré Superfin') thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of one-third compost, one-third garden soil, and one-third sand or perlite is ideal to ensure good drainage and fertility.
RepottingEuropean pear trees ('Beurré Superfin') grown in containers should be repotted every 3-5 years or when rootbound, though mature trees may require less frequent repotting.
Humidity & MistingEuropean pear ('Beurré Superfin') prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to various outdoor conditions as long as the soil moisture is appropriate.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not suitable for indoor growing; requires outdoor conditions.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, ensure good air circulation, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin', commonly known as the European pear, begins with seed germination, which requires stratification to break dormancy. After sprouting, the seedling goes through a juvenile phase where it establishes roots and shoots but does not bear fruit. As it matures, the tree enters a reproductive phase, usually after several years, where it develops flowers that, upon successful pollination (often by bees), will set fruit. The 'Beurré Superfin' will then produce pears annually during its fruiting season, typically in late summer or autumn, with the quantity and quality of fruit depending on factors like climate, care, and pruning. As the tree ages, it enters a phase of senescence where fruit production declines until it eventually dies. Regular pruning and proper horticultural care can extend the productive life of the European pear tree for many years.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter
Pyrus communis 'Beurré Superfin', commonly known as the 'Beurré Superfin' pear, is typically propagated by grafting, which is the most popular method for this variety of fruit tree. Grafting involves joining a scion, or cutting, from a desired pear tree with a rootstock from another tree which provides the root system. This method is usually undertaken in late winter to early spring when the tree is dormant. The scion, which is a twig from the 'Beurré Superfin' pear containing buds, is commonly about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long. It is carefully inserted into a cut in the rootstock and bound securely. This process ensures that the desirable qualities of the 'Beurré Superfin' pear, such as fruit size and flavor, are preserved in the new trees that arise from the graft.
