Pyrus × lecontei
| Pyrus × lecontei | |
| Light: |   |
| Moisture: |  |
| Hardiness: | 6 |
| Soil pH: | 5.6-8.4 |
| Height: | 26' |
| Open Woods Forest | |
| Edible Rating: |  |
| Tea: | Yes |
 | |
Pyrus × lecontei (common name: le conte pear)
Propagation: Seed - best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in the autumn, it will then usually germinate in mid to late winter. Stored seed requires 8 - 10 weeks cold stratification at 1°c and should be sown as early in the year as possible[1]. Temperatures over 15 - 20°c induce a secondary dormancy in the seed[1]. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame or greenhouse for their first year. Plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. This species is a hybrid and is unlikely to breed true to type from seed.
Cultivation: Prefers a good well-drained loam in full sun[1]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Tolerates light shade but does not fruit so well in such a position. Tolerates atmospheric pollution, excessive moisture and a range of soil types if they are moderately fertile[1]. Established plants are drought tolerant[1].
Plants are hardy to at least -15°c[1].
This hybrid species has a greater resistance to fireblight than either of its parents though the fruit quality is poorer[2]. Occasionally cultivated for its edible fruit, there are some named varieties[2].
Range: A garden hybrid, P. communis x P. pyrifolia.
Habitat: Not known in the wild.
Edibility: Fruit - raw or cooked. The flesh is crisp-fleshed like that of the Asian pears and is ready to eat when picked. It requires no further ripening and can store for several days to several months[2]. Occasionally eaten fresh, it is more commonly cooked in pies, preserves etc[2]. A sour taste[1]. The fruit is up to 8cm long and 5cm wide[1].
Pollinators: Insects
Soil: Can grow in light, medium, and heavy soils.
Drainage: Prefers well drained soil.
Pollution: Tolerates environmental pollution.
Flower Type: Hermaphrodite
Heavy Clay: Grows in heavy-clay soils.
Links
References