Asian pear

Asian pears are rapidly growing in popularity. Most varieties have a roundish shape very similar to that of an apple, which has led to the often used and misleading name of apple-pear, but these are true pears. They are also known as Oriental pears, Chinese pears, and sand pears. This delicious and very juicy fruit was first brought to the United States by Chinese gold miners during the gold rush of the mid-1800s. The trees are exceptionally attractive, producing bright white flowers in the spring that contrast with its then leathery green leaves; the leaves also give a cascade of fall colors later in the year. The cultivation of Asian pears is much the same as for European pear varieties, with the exception that Asian pears should be left to ripen on the tree. When ripe, the fruit is still quite firm to the touch and will not yield to slight pressure. The best indicator of ripeness is a sweet aroma. Asian pears are available on the market from late summer through the holiday season. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two weeks and in the refrigerator for much longer. Asian pears are excellent for cooking and poaching; however, they take much longer to cook than European pears. Asian pear trees are commonly used as rootstock in commercial pear orchards.