Pyrus communis Le Lectier - Pear Tree

Pyrus communis Lectier is an ancient, hardy, vigorous variety with a semi-erect habit. It produces a large, pear-shaped fruit, more or less elongated and bulging, with a slightly bumpy surface. Its skin is smooth, fairly thick and greenish-yellow when ripe. Its white flesh is fine, melting, juicy, sweet, slightly acidic, and delicately fragrant. Harvesting takes place from November to December, as the fruits ripen. They can be consumed as soon as they are picked and can be stored until January. Pleasantly acidic and rich in sugar, it is a delicious pear to be enjoyed fresh. When cooked, it lends itself well to many sweet or savoury recipes. It is a partially self-fertile variety that requires the presence of other pear varieties nearby to improve pollination and increase the number of fruits.

Pyrus communis (Common Pear) is a fruit tree belonging to the Rosaceae family. It has been present in Europe since ancient times and is native to the forests of Western Asia. Over the centuries, a large number of cultivars have emerged. Its cultivation is widespread in Europe. The Lectier variety originates from the Orléans region of France, around 1882.

The Lectier Pear tree has a semi-erect framework and can reach a height of 4 to 6 metres (13 to 20 feet), producing numerous slightly arched branches. Its habit is well suited to tall forms (standard), low forms (bush), or espalier forms (fan-trained). Its deciduous foliage consists of large, 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) long, alternate, ovate, glossy green leaves which turn yellow-orange in autumn. Flowering occurs in April, which usually protects it from frost. The single white, nectar-rich flowers, 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter are grouped in umbels. They can be destroyed by frost from -2 to -3°C. It is a hardy tree that withstands temperatures as low as -25°C and is suitable for cultivation in all regions. This Pear tree is self-sterile or self-incompatible, meaning the flowers cannot fertilize themselves. That is why the presence of other pear varieties, flowering at the same time, is necessary for cross-pollination to increase the number of fruits.

The Lectier Pear tree is a high-yielding variety that bears fruit fairly quickly. Abundant and regular fruiting begins in October and continues until November. The pear can be consumed raw or cooked, in compotes, pastries, desserts, fruit salads, with cheeses or as an accompaniment to savoury dishes, alongside duck, white meat (poultry and lamb), or game. It is also perfect for making juices or fruits in syrup. The pear is in water, refreshing and thirst-quenching. With its fleshy texture makes it very satisfying. It is moderately calorie-rich and well supplied with potassium, calcium and magnesium, with a significant iron content. Its content of vitamins C and E, antioxidants, and fibre make the pear a healthy choice. It is invigorating, energising, and rehydrating. The fruits can be stored until January in a cool, dry place, protected from light, at a temperature around 8 to 10°C or in a cold room, sealed from external air, at a temperature of 1 to 3°C.

In the Pear Trees category, Pyrus domestica Lectier is a hardy and vigorous variety, resistant to scab. This fruit tree prefers deep, slightly moist soils, while it dislikes excessively draining, dry, and chalky soils. To obtain high-quality fruits, thin by reducing the number of fruits on the tree. Pruning to open up the tree, by removing some branches from the centre, will provide light and give the fruits a beautiful colour. This will also limit diseases. The pear is very popular for its fruits, loved by young and old alike. With a wide range of varieties, it is easy to find one that suits.