Description
The Calebasse à la Reine Pear tree is a historic Belgian variety dating back to 1770. It is known for its elongated pears, best harvested just before full ripeness to enjoy their crisp and refreshing texture. Grafted on low-stem rootstock, it is ideal for small gardens and family orchards. It also acts as a reliable pollinator.
Geographical origin: Tournai, Belgium, around 1770 (Donat Leclercq)
Botanical family: Rosaceae
Notable features: This heritage cultivar is making a comeback in home orchards and edible landscapes for its distinct aroma and traditional appeal.
Mature height: 2.5 to 3.5 meters (low-stem)
Mature spread: 2 to 3 meters
Habit: Upright and balanced
Bark: Dark brown, slightly rough with age
Foliage: Deciduous, yellow in autumn
Growth: Moderate
Hardiness: Very hardy, down to -20°C
Flowering time: Mid-season (April)
Flower description: White, pollen-rich blossoms
Fruits: Elongated yellowish pears with white, slightly grainy flesh, crisp before ripeness, then tender and juicy, acid-sweet with a hint of astringency and wine aroma. Watch for internal over-ripening.
It is pollinated by: Jeanne d'Arc, Beurré d’Hardenpont, Beurré Bosc, Légipont, Durondeau, Beurré Hardy, Conférence, Beurré Superfin, Seigneur Esperen, Triomphe de Vienne, Bon-Chrétien Williams, Beurré de Naghin, Duchesse d'Angoulême, Beurré Lebrun, Ananas de Courtrai, ...
It pollinates the following varieties : Ananas de Courtrai, Doyenné Boussoch, (ou Double Philippe, Beurré de Mérode), Beurré Lebrun, Duchesse d'Angoulême, Beurré de Naghin, Bon-Chrétien Williams, Triomphe de Vienne, Seigneur Esperen, Beurré Superfin, Conférence, Beurré Hardy, Durondeau, William's Duchess, Légipont, Saint Remy, Beurré d’Hardenpont, Saint Mathieu, Jeanne d'Arc, Joséphine de Malines, ...
Wildlife: Excellent spring nectar source and pollinator
Ideal light: Full sun
Soil type: Fertile, well-drained, neutral to slightly calcareous
Soil preparation tips: Mix in compost or mature manure
Spacing: 3 to 4 meters (low-stem form)
Soil nature: Loose and rich
At planting: Regular watering first year
At maturity: Low to moderate needs
When and how to prune: Formative pruning first years, then light maintenance after harvest
Method: Grafted onto quince for dwarf growth
Best placement: Edible hedge, small orchard, heritage gardens
Companion planting: Apple tree, plum tree, rosemary, balm, angelica
Cultural use: Consumed fresh before full ripeness for crunch, or stored briefly. Must be picked early to avoid internal softening.
Vulnerabilities: Medium to low susceptibility to scab
Natural prevention: Maintain air circulation, use horsetail or clay treatments
Practical advice: Harvest on time, sunny location, compost-rich soil
‘Calebasse à la Reine’ is prized for its noble shape, refreshing early use, and aromatic profile. A productive tree and valuable pollinator in mixed orchards.
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