Pear (Pyrus) Doyenne du Comice Half Standard

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 19th-century France 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.

This half standard has a clear trunk of around 1.2m beneath a well-branched crown. It grows into a classic freestanding orchard-style tree with room to mow or plant beneath, which suits lawns, larger gardens and small orchards. Comice loves warmth, so give it the sunniest, most sheltered spot you have; it thrives in milder southern and coastal gardens. It is not self-fertile, so plant another pear nearby for cross-pollination. Conference, Concorde and Beth all make good partners. Plant in deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil, stake firmly for the first few years, and avoid frost pockets, as pears flower early. Pick the fruit in October while still firm, then ripen it indoors 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.