Pyrus communis 'WILLIAM'S RED' pear tree
Symbivit Tric (arbuscular)
Symbivit (arbuscular)Pyrus
The genus Pyrus – the pear – is among the oldest fruit groups cultivated by humans, with a history stretching back thousands of years to the regions of the Caucasus, Asia Minor and Iran, from where pears spread into Europe and China. Wild species inhabit light woodlands, mountain slopes and dry rocky hillsides, and share several common traits – a deep root system, great longevity and the ability to produce firm, resilient wood. These characteristics are also reflected in Pyrus communis, which over centuries of domestication has been bred and selected into dozens of growth forms, from vigorous tall standards to modern dwarf types suitable for small gardens.
The history of red‑fleshed pears, however, is much more recent. While red‑fleshed apples have been known since the 19th century, pears with similar traits appeared only in modern times. In Germany, selections with strong anthocyanin pigmentation began to emerge, and for their unusual character they were grouped into the Vampira series – a collection of fruit trees with red flesh.
William's is probably the most known and spread out pear in the world. Not long after it was introduced in the 18th century there was a red-coloured sport called simply Red William’s or William’s Red
It is an early variety bearing mid-sized or large fruit with red-flushed or almost burgundy purple coloured skin when fully mature. The flesh is very juicy, aromatic, and sweet, it quickly softens when picked, therefore it is not suitable for storing. It tastes best freshly picked up from the tree.
It is self-sterile meaning it always needs a pollinator. Suitable partners can be e.g. Conference nebo Clapp's Favourite.. It crops reliably though the tree is weaker than the green parent.
It forms a mid-sized tree with wide crown. Pest and disease-free. Pears are not picky about soil type if the place is not damp or filled with stones. Adding of good compost will help increase crop and the tree will get stronger sooner. Make sure to stake young plants. Fully hardy, it tolerates northern exposures and wind if it gets enough sun.
Last update 12-04-2010
Pears are not demanding to grow. They thrive best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. The soil should be loamy to sandy‑loam, well‑drained yet moderately moist, with a pH from slightly acidic to neutral. In the first years after planting, young trees should be tied to a stake, and high‑stem forms secured with a strong windbreak support, to ensure a straight trunk and stable root system. Fertilization is possible, preferably organic but not needed, and pruning is not required either – only a gentle thinning of the crown at the end of winter, more for aesthetics than necessity. The tree is hardy to at least –34 °C (USDA zone 4) and requires no winter protection.
