Culture
Best grown in evenly moist, well-draining soil in full sun. Hardy in Zones 5-8, but will perform best in climates with mild winters. Tolerant of a range of soil conditions. Most varieties benefit from cross pollination. Yearly pruning and thinning will help prevent over-production of fruit and breaking of branches.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Pyrus pyrifolia, commonly known as Asian pear, sand pear, or apple pear, is a pear tree native to southern China, Laos, and Vietnam. Mature plants can reach 10-20' tall with a similar spread in cultivation although specimens in the wild have been found to reach close to 50' tall. The leaves are ovate and will reach 2.75-4.75" long and 1.5-2.5" wide with finely serrated margins. Clusters of white, five-petaled, 1" wide flowers bloom in spring followed by round, 1" wide, brownish green pomes that ripen in late summer. Asian pears are cultivated around the world for their edible fruits.
Genus name is the Latin name for pear.
The specific epithet pyrifolia means "having leaves like a pear".
'Shinseiki' is a hardy selection of Asian pear that features fragrant, white blooms in spring followed by a crop of medium to large-sized, round pears that mature in late summer. The skin is yellow and thin, and the flesh is crisp and juicy with a sweet flavor and fine-grained texture. Mature trees will reach 20' tall similar spread. Although not necessary for fruit production, suitable pollinators include 'Chojuro', 'Barlett', and 'Nijisseiki' (syn. 'Twentieth Century').
Problems
Susceptible to a number of pest and disease issues common to pears including fire blight, pear rust, pear scab, brown rot, codling moth, and pear midge. Flowers can be susceptible to spring frosts and freezes depending on climate.
Uses
Ornamental tree with spring bloom display. Fruiting tree with edible fruit. Unlike English pears, Asian pears should be allowed to ripen fully on the tree. The fruits have a crisp and grainy texture. Can be enjoyed fresh, used raw in salads, sauces, condiments, and marinades, or cooked dishes such as stews, soups, and stir fries.