Belle de Bruxelles

A rare heritage European pear dating back to at least 1789, when it was cultivated in Germany. By the early 1800s it was well established in Normandy, France, and planted widely across Europe throughout the 19th century. The name translates from French to "Beauty of Brussels," though despite the Belgian city reference, the variety's exact origins remain uncertain. It has been known by many names over the centuries, including Belle d'Août, Fanfareau, Grosse-Bergamotte d'Été, Hampden's Bergamot, and Bergamotte de Bruxelles. Fruit: Medium to large, with a squat, rounded shape and broad base tapering slightly toward the stem. The skin is yellow-green, sometimes showing a red-brown blush, smooth with tiny grey russet dots. The white flesh is juicy, tender, and notably seedless. The texture is somewhat coarse and gritty near the center but becomes smoother and buttery closer to the skin. The flavor is a blend of sweet and sour with floral and musky notes and a faint aroma. Best enjoyed fresh, out of hand. Stores about one week refrigerated, up to one month under ideal cold storage conditions. Growing: USDA Zones 5–9. Low chill requirement, midseason bloom and harvest. Requires a second pear variety for cross-pollination. Trees are productive and valued by home gardeners for their heavy bearing and the fruit's attractive appearance. Today this is a rare variety, mostly grown by pear enthusiasts in Europe, particularly in France, England, Belgium, and Germany. A wonderful heirloom worth preserving for its unique flavor, seedless fruit, and historical significance.