Kieffer Pear

Pyrus communis 'Kieffer'

The Kieffer pear is a popular variety of pear tree that is known for its hardiness and versatility. Here's everything you need to know about Kieffer pears:

1. Appearance: Kieffer pears are medium to large in size and have a round, slightly bell-shaped appearance. The skin is thick and rough, with a greenish-yellow color that may have a reddish blush.

2. Taste and Texture: Kieffer pears are not typically eaten fresh as they have a coarse and grainy texture. However, they are excellent for cooking, canning, and baking. When cooked, they become tender and develop a sweet and tangy flavor.

3. Harvesting: Kieffer pears are usually harvested in late summer or early fall, depending on the region. It's important to pick them when they are still firm and slightly green, as they will continue to ripen off the tree.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  High Maintenance. Needs regular watering.  Peaches have a lot of pest and disease issues and need regular spraying to ensure good crop.  Potential pests include tree borer, fruit moth, root nematodes, and aphids.   Late spring frosts can severely damage flower buds.  Fallen fruit can be messy if not harvested.

 LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Wildlife Garden, Naturalized Areas, Ponds and Streams, Edible Gardens, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Rosemary, Strawberry, Pomegranate 

IMAGE: Image: Photo by Gary Owens, Fall color, CC BY 2.0

* As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.