Pear (Pyrus) Doyenne du Comice

Doyenné du Comice is widely regarded as the finest-flavoured pear in the world, and it holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. It was raised in France in the 19th century by the horticultural society of Angers, from which it takes its name. White spring blossom, loved by bees, is followed in autumn by large, rounded golden pears, often with a russet or red blush. The flesh is pale, buttery and meltingly juicy, with a rich, sweet, aromatic flavour that has made Comice the benchmark for dessert pears. Enjoy them fresh with cheese, or poached in wine for a special dessert.

Comice loves warmth, so give it the sunniest, most sheltered spot you have for the best crops and flavour. It grows beautifully against a south or west-facing wall, and it thrives in milder southern and coastal gardens. It is not self-fertile, so plant it with another pear nearby for cross-pollination. Conference, Concorde and Beth all make good partners. Plant in deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil, and avoid frost pockets, as pears flower early. Pick the fruit in October while still firm, then ripen it indoors for a few days until the flesh near the stalk yields slightly to gentle pressure. Stored somewhere cool, the pears will keep into November or December. Prune in winter to keep an open shape and encourage fruiting spurs. Fully hardy.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.