Anjou, often sold as d'Anjou, is a major winter pear of French origin, valued for its abundant, long-storing crops and mild sweet flavor. The fruits are short-necked and egg-shaped with smooth green skin that stays green even when ripe, so ripeness is judged by gentle pressure near the stem rather than color. The white flesh is juicy, sweet, and mildly aromatic, good both fresh and for cooking. A red-skinned sport, Red Anjou, is also widely grown. Anjou is self-unfruitful and benefits from a pollinizer such as Bartlett or Bosc. It stores exceptionally well, often for months in cold storage, making it a staple winter and spring market pear. The tree is productive and moderately hardy.
Flavor Profile
Mild, sweet, juicy flesh with subtle aroma; versatile fresh or cooked.
Visual Characteristics
Short-necked egg-shaped fruit with smooth green skin that stays green when ripe (or red in the Red Anjou sport).
Growing Tips
Self-unfruitful; pollinize with Bartlett or Bosc. Since skin stays green, test ripeness by gentle pressure near the stem. Stores for months.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.