Pears are a diverse and delicious fruit, ranging from the buttery sweetness of Comice to the crisp bite of Asian varieties. With over 5,000 known cultivars worldwide, pears come in many shapes, colors, textures, and flavors—each suited to different uses like fresh eating, baking, canning, or juicing. In this guide, you’ll discover 31 popular types of pears, each with its own unique identity, seasonality, and benefits. Whether you’re a fruit enthusiast, gardener, or foodie, this list offers a deeper look into the wide and wonderful world of pears.
1. Bartlett Pear
Bartlett pears are one of the most popular and widely recognized pear varieties, especially in North America. Known for their classic pear shape and sweet, juicy flavor, they are often used for both fresh eating and canning.
Identification
- Color: Green when unripe, turning yellow when ripe
- Shape: Classic bell-shaped
- Skin: Smooth and thin
- Flesh: Creamy white and juicy
- Taste: Sweet, buttery, and aromatic
Growth and Seasonality
Bartlett pears thrive in temperate climates with well-drained soil. They are typically harvested in late summer, around August to September, and ripen off the tree.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for eating fresh, cooking, or canning, Bartlett pears are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. They support digestive health and help boost immunity.
2. Anjou Pear (Green Anjou)
Green Anjou pears are a versatile and widely available variety known for their egg-like shape and mild, refreshing flavor. Unlike Bartlett, they don’t change color much when ripe, which makes checking ripeness by touch important.
Identification
- Color: Bright green, remains green when ripe
- Shape: Egg-shaped, shorter neck than Bartlett
- Skin: Smooth and thick
- Flesh: Dense and juicy
- Taste: Mildly sweet with a hint of citrus
Growth and Seasonality
Anjou pears grow well in cooler regions and are harvested in late fall. They store well and are available almost year-round.
Uses and Benefits
Excellent for snacking, baking, or salads due to their firm texture. They’re high in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants that support digestion and skin health.
3. Red Anjou Pear
Red Anjou pears are a striking variation of the Green Anjou, offering the same shape and texture with a beautiful red skin. Their flavor is subtly sweet and slightly spiced, making them a colorful addition to many dishes.
Identification
- Color: Deep red to maroon
- Shape: Egg-shaped, similar to Green Anjou
- Skin: Smooth and firm
- Flesh: Creamy white and dense
- Taste: Mildly sweet with a hint of spice
Growth and Seasonality
Red Anjou pears are harvested in the same season as Green Anjou—late fall—and are available through spring due to their long storage life.
Uses and Benefits
Perfect for fresh eating, roasting, or slicing into salads. Rich in antioxidants (especially anthocyanins from the red skin), fiber, and vitamin C.
4. Bosc Pear
Bosc pears are easily recognized by their long necks and cinnamon-brown skin. They have a dense, crisp texture and a rich, honey-like flavor, making them perfect for baking and poaching.
Identification
- Color: Golden brown to russeted
- Shape: Elongated neck with a curved base
- Skin: Thick and slightly rough
- Flesh: Firm, dense, and ivory-colored
- Taste: Sweet with hints of spice and honey
Growth and Seasonality
Bosc pears thrive in cooler climates and are harvested in the fall, typically from late September through October.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for baking, poaching, and roasting, as they hold their shape well. High in fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, Bosc pears are great for digestion and cardiovascular health.
5. Comice Pear
Comice pears are considered one of the most flavorful pear varieties, prized for their exceptionally juicy and buttery texture. They are often enjoyed fresh and are popular in gourmet fruit baskets.
Identification
- Color: Pale green, sometimes with a red blush
- Shape: Round and squat with a short neck
- Skin: Thin and smooth
- Flesh: Very juicy and tender
- Taste: Intensely sweet, rich, and aromatic
Growth and Seasonality
Comice pears are harvested in late fall and are often enjoyed during the holiday season due to their rich flavor and festive appeal.
Uses and Benefits
Best eaten fresh due to their delicate texture. Comice pears are high in natural sugars, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a heart-healthy and satisfying fruit choice.
6. Seckel Pear
Seckel pears, often called “sugar pears,” are one of the smallest cultivated pear varieties. Despite their size, they are incredibly sweet and flavorful, making them ideal for snacking and pickling.
Identification
- Color: Greenish-yellow with a red blush
- Shape: Small and round with a short neck
- Skin: Smooth and firm
- Flesh: Fine-grained and crisp
- Taste: Very sweet with spicy undertones
Growth and Seasonality
Seckel pears are harvested in early fall, typically from September through October, and are well-suited for cooler climates.
Uses and Benefits
Perfect for cheese boards, children’s snacks, and canning. They are rich in fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestive health and immune function.
7. Forelle Pear
Forelle pears are a small, colorful variety known for their unique red freckles and sweet, tangy flavor. Their name means “trout” in German, referring to the speckled skin that resembles a trout’s coloring.
Identification
- Color: Yellow-green base with red speckles
- Shape: Small and bell-shaped
- Skin: Thin with noticeable freckles
- Flesh: Crisp and juicy
- Taste: Sweet with a bright tartness
Growth and Seasonality
Forelle pears are harvested in mid to late fall and require cooler climates to develop their color and flavor fully.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for fresh eating and lunchboxes. They’re a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, helping promote gut health and boost immunity.
8. Starkrimson Pear
Starkrimson pears are known for their stunning bright red skin and delicate floral aroma. Their smooth texture and mild sweetness make them a favorite for both fresh eating and adding color to dishes.
Identification
- Color: Bright crimson red
- Shape: Bell-shaped with a slightly wider base
- Skin: Smooth and vibrant
- Flesh: Juicy, tender, and white
- Taste: Mildly sweet with floral notes
Growth and Seasonality
Starkrimson pears are typically harvested in late summer, making them one of the earliest red pear varieties of the season.
Uses and Benefits
Great for fresh eating and fruit displays. They contain antioxidants from their red skin, along with vitamin C and dietary fiber, contributing to skin health and digestion.
9. Concorde Pear
Concorde pears are an elegant, long-necked variety known for their firm texture and vanilla-like sweetness. They are a cross between the Conference and Comice pears and are excellent for both raw and cooked uses.
Identification
- Color: Green skin that may yellow slightly as it ripens
- Shape: Slender with a long neck
- Skin: Smooth and firm
- Flesh: Crisp yet juicy
- Taste: Sweet with a hint of vanilla
Growth and Seasonality
Concorde pears are harvested in early fall and store exceptionally well, often lasting into winter.
Uses and Benefits
Perfect for slicing, baking, and salads due to their firmness. High in fiber and vitamin C, they promote healthy digestion and immune function.
10. Asian Pear
Asian pears, also known as Nashi or apple pears, are distinct for their crisp, juicy texture and round, apple-like shape. They are eaten fresh and are especially popular in East Asian cuisine.
Identification
- Color: Yellow to light brown
- Shape: Round, similar to an apple
- Skin: Firm and slightly rough
- Flesh: Crisp, grainy, and very juicy
- Taste: Mildly sweet with a refreshing crunch
Growth and Seasonality
Asian pears thrive in temperate climates and are usually harvested from late summer to early fall.
Uses and Benefits
Enjoyed fresh or in salads, they’re known for their hydrating qualities. Rich in fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, Asian pears help support hydration and digestive health.
11. Chojuro Pear
Chojuro is a traditional Japanese variety of Asian pear with a bronze skin and butterscotch-like flavor. It has a dense texture and is often used in cooking and fresh eating.
Identification
- Color: Russeted bronze to golden brown
- Shape: Round and flat
- Skin: Thick and slightly rough
- Flesh: Firm and crunchy
- Taste: Sweet with hints of caramel or butterscotch
Growth and Seasonality
Chojuro pears are typically harvested in late summer and do well in warm, well-drained regions of Japan and other temperate areas.
Uses and Benefits
Eaten fresh or used in desserts and sauces. They are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants, contributing to heart and digestive health.
12. Shinko Pear
Shinko pears are a popular Asian pear variety known for their golden-brown skin and crisp, juicy flesh. They are exceptionally sweet and have excellent storage capabilities.
Identification
- Color: Golden to bronze-brown
- Shape: Round and slightly flattened
- Skin: Smooth and slightly grainy
- Flesh: Crunchy and very juicy
- Taste: Sweet with low acidity
Growth and Seasonality
Shinko pears are harvested in late summer to early fall and grow well in warm, sunny climates with well-drained soil.
Uses and Benefits
Best enjoyed fresh due to their crisp texture. They’re high in water content, fiber, and vitamin C, making them a hydrating and digestion-friendly fruit.
13. Hosui Pear
Hosui pears are another beloved Asian variety, known for their bronze skin and rich, juicy flavor. Their name means “abundant juice” in Japanese, which perfectly describes their texture.
Identification
- Color: Yellow-bronze with russeting
- Shape: Round and squat
- Skin: Slightly rough and russeted
- Flesh: Soft-crisp and very juicy
- Taste: Sweet with a hint of spice
Growth and Seasonality
Hosui pears are typically harvested in late summer and are cultivated in Japan, Korea, and parts of the U.S.
Uses and Benefits
Perfect for fresh eating or pairing with cheese and nuts. Hosui pears provide antioxidants, potassium, and dietary fiber, promoting hydration and cardiovascular health.
14. Nijisseiki (20th Century Pear)
Nijisseiki, also known as the 20th Century pear, is a highly regarded Asian pear variety from Japan. It is known for its smooth yellow skin, crisp texture, and balanced sweetness, making it a staple in many Asian markets.
Identification
- Color: Bright yellow when ripe
- Shape: Round and symmetrical
- Skin: Thin and smooth
- Flesh: Firm, crisp, and juicy
- Taste: Sweet, mild, and refreshing
Growth and Seasonality
Nijisseiki pears are harvested in early to mid-fall and thrive in well-drained soils and moderate climates.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for fresh eating, slicing, or desserts. They’re high in water, fiber, and vitamin C, supporting hydration and a healthy digestive system.
15. Harrow Delight Pear
Harrow Delight is an early-season European pear developed in Canada. It is favored for its sweet flavor, smooth texture, and resistance to disease, especially fire blight.
Identification
- Color: Light green with a red blush
- Shape: Classic pear shape with a rounded base
- Skin: Smooth and thin
- Flesh: Juicy and buttery
- Taste: Sweet and slightly tangy
Growth and Seasonality
This variety is harvested early, typically in late summer, and grows well in temperate climates.
Uses and Benefits
Best enjoyed fresh or in salads due to its soft texture. Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, Harrow Delight supports immune function and digestion.
16. Magness Pear
Magness pears are a soft, juicy variety developed in the United States. They are known for their smooth, buttery texture and lack of grit, making them especially pleasant for fresh eating.
Identification
- Color: Greenish-yellow, sometimes with a reddish blush
- Shape: Rounded with a short neck
- Skin: Smooth and tender
- Flesh: Extremely soft and juicy
- Taste: Very sweet and mild
Growth and Seasonality
Magness pears are harvested in late summer to early fall and perform well in temperate regions with good drainage.
Uses and Benefits
Primarily used for fresh consumption due to their delicate texture. They are high in fiber and vitamin C, and their low acidity makes them gentle on digestion.
17. Warren Pear
Warren pears are often considered one of the best-tasting pears, combining buttery flesh with a rich, sweet flavor. They are disease-resistant and prized by home growers and chefs alike.
Identification
- Color: Green with occasional red blush
- Shape: Classic pear shape with a tapering neck
- Skin: Smooth and thin
- Flesh: Silky and juicy
- Taste: Sweet and buttery with floral notes
Growth and Seasonality
Warren pears are harvested in early fall and grow best in warm, humid regions.
Uses and Benefits
Excellent for fresh eating and elegant desserts. They are rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, contributing to heart health and digestive wellness.
18. Winter Nelis Pear
Winter Nelis is a late-season European pear known for its rich, spicy-sweet flavor and excellent storage qualities. It’s a small variety but packs a complex and concentrated taste.
Identification
- Color: Green with brown russeting
- Shape: Small and round with a short neck
- Skin: Thick and russeted
- Flesh: Creamy, dense, and juicy
- Taste: Sweet, spicy, and aromatic
Growth and Seasonality
This variety is harvested in late fall, often in October, and continues to ripen in storage, making it a true winter pear.
Uses and Benefits
Best for fresh eating, cheese pairings, and baking. Winter Nelis pears offer fiber, potassium, and antioxidants that support immunity and digestive health.
19. Packham’s Triumph Pear
Packham’s Triumph is an Australian pear developed in the 19th century. It is appreciated for its juicy, tender flesh and classic pear flavor, resembling Bartlett in taste but with better storage life.
Identification
- Color: Light green, turning yellow when ripe
- Shape: Plump and bell-shaped
- Skin: Thin and smooth
- Flesh: Soft, white, and juicy
- Taste: Sweet, mild, and aromatic
Growth and Seasonality
Typically harvested in late summer or early fall, Packham’s Triumph pears grow well in warm climates with good sun exposure.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for snacking, salads, and desserts. They are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and natural sugars, supporting energy and immune function.
20. Beurré Hardy Pear
Beurré Hardy is a traditional French pear variety known for its smooth, buttery texture and rich, floral flavor. It’s highly regarded in Europe for both fresh eating and gourmet uses.
Identification
- Color: Green with bronze russeting and occasional pink blush
- Shape: Classic pear shape with a long neck
- Skin: Slightly rough and russeted
- Flesh: Soft, juicy, and buttery
- Taste: Sweet with floral and musky undertones
Growth and Seasonality
Harvested in early fall, Beurré Hardy pears perform best in temperate regions with well-drained soil and consistent moisture.
Uses and Benefits
Best enjoyed fresh or in desserts. They’re rich in vitamin C and fiber, supporting skin health and digestion.
21. Beurré Bosc Pear
Also known as Bosc, this variety is appreciated for its elongated shape and firm texture. It’s a favorite for baking due to its ability to hold shape under heat while maintaining its sweet flavor.
Identification
- Color: Cinnamon brown with rough russeted skin
- Shape: Long-necked and slender
- Skin: Thick and slightly coarse
- Flesh: Firm, dense, and crisp
- Taste: Sweet and slightly spicy
Growth and Seasonality
Beurré Bosc pears are harvested in early to mid-fall and store well into winter, thriving in cooler growing climates.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for baking, roasting, or poaching. High in fiber and vitamin C, they support gut health and immunity while offering a satisfying, hearty bite.
22. Doyenné du Comice Pear
Doyenné du Comice, often simply called Comice, is a luxurious French pear prized for its exceptional sweetness and tender, buttery flesh. It’s considered one of the finest dessert pears.
Identification
- Color: Greenish-yellow with occasional red blush
- Shape: Round with a short, thick neck
- Skin: Thin and smooth
- Flesh: Extremely juicy, soft, and fine-textured
- Taste: Very sweet with floral and honeyed notes
Growth and Seasonality
Harvested in early to mid-fall, this variety requires a cool, temperate climate to thrive and is often available during the holiday season.
Uses and Benefits
Best enjoyed fresh or with cheese. High in antioxidants and vitamin C, Comice pears offer a rich, satisfying flavor while supporting immune and skin health.
23. Clapp’s Favorite Pear
Clapp’s Favorite is an early-season pear variety known for its juiciness and bright, tangy flavor. It resembles Bartlett in appearance and ripens quickly after harvest.
Identification
- Color: Light green turning yellow, often with a red blush
- Shape: Bell-shaped
- Skin: Smooth and glossy
- Flesh: White, juicy, and tender
- Taste: Sweet with a slight tart finish
Growth and Seasonality
Clapp’s Favorite is typically harvested in mid to late summer and should be eaten soon after ripening, as it softens rapidly.
Uses and Benefits
Great for fresh eating and canning. These pears are rich in water, vitamin C, and fiber, making them refreshing and good for digestion.
24. Flemish Beauty Pear
Flemish Beauty is an old European pear variety cherished for its sweet flavor and attractive appearance. It’s widely grown for home gardens and local markets.
Identification
- Color: Yellow skin with a bright red blush
- Shape: Broad and round with a short neck
- Skin: Smooth with occasional russeting
- Flesh: Tender, juicy, and slightly coarse
- Taste: Very sweet and aromatic
Growth and Seasonality
Flemish Beauty pears are typically harvested in late summer to early fall and grow well in temperate climates.
Uses and Benefits
Perfect for eating fresh or baking. These pears are high in natural sugars, vitamin C, and fiber—supporting energy levels and digestive health.
25. Aurora Pear
Aurora pears are a Canadian variety known for their excellent flavor and smooth, buttery texture. They ripen slightly earlier than Bartlett and are considered one of the best-tasting fall pears.
Identification
- Color: Yellow-green with occasional red blush
- Shape: Bell-shaped with a slightly narrow neck
- Skin: Thin and smooth
- Flesh: Soft, creamy, and juicy
- Taste: Very sweet with a subtle spice
Growth and Seasonality
Aurora pears are harvested in late summer to early fall and are well-suited to cooler growing regions.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for fresh eating and salads. Aurora pears are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, helping to boost immunity and support heart health.
26. Le Conte Pear
Le Conte pears are a southern U.S. variety known for their adaptability to warm climates and crisp, juicy texture. They resemble Asian pears in appearance and have a mildly sweet flavor.
Identification
- Color: Pale yellow to light green
- Shape: Round to slightly oblong
- Skin: Smooth and firm
- Flesh: Crisp, white, and juicy
- Taste: Mildly sweet with low acidity
Growth and Seasonality
Harvested in late summer, Le Conte pears thrive in warmer regions, especially in the southern United States.
Uses and Benefits
Best eaten fresh or used in preserves. They are a hydrating fruit packed with fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestion and immunity.
27. Lincoln Pear
Lincoln pears are a hardy variety appreciated for their firm flesh and well-balanced sweetness. They are primarily grown in home orchards and valued for their disease resistance.
Identification
- Color: Yellowish-green with possible russeting
- Shape: Classic pear shape with a medium neck
- Skin: Smooth and moderately thick
- Flesh: Firm and creamy
- Taste: Sweet with a mild tart undertone
Growth and Seasonality
Lincoln pears are typically harvested in early fall and perform well in regions with cool to temperate climates.
Uses and Benefits
Great for fresh eating and baking. They provide essential nutrients like fiber, potassium, and vitamin K, supporting bone and heart health.
28. Pineapple Pear
Pineapple pears are a unique variety named for their tropical, pineapple-like flavor. They are popular in the southern United States due to their heat tolerance and high productivity.
Identification
- Color: Yellow to light green with light russeting
- Shape: Round to slightly oblong
- Skin: Thick and firm
- Flesh: Crisp, coarse, and juicy
- Taste: Sweet-tart with a tropical, pineapple hint
Growth and Seasonality
These pears thrive in warm climates and are typically harvested in mid to late summer, making them ideal for southern growers.
Uses and Benefits
Used for fresh eating, preserves, and baking. Rich in vitamin C and fiber, they support immune function and digestive health.
29. Tyson Pear
Tyson pears are an old American heirloom variety known for their fine texture and excellent flavor. They ripen early and are highly valued by gardeners and fruit enthusiasts.
Identification
- Color: Light green turning yellow, sometimes with a reddish blush
- Shape: Classic pear shape with a medium neck
- Skin: Thin and tender
- Flesh: Soft, buttery, and juicy
- Taste: Very sweet with a floral fragrance
Growth and Seasonality
Tyson pears are harvested in late summer and grow best in cooler, northern climates.
Uses and Benefits
Best enjoyed fresh due to their soft texture. They’re high in natural sugars, fiber, and antioxidants, making them both tasty and heart-healthy.
30. Dana Hovey Pear
Dana Hovey is a late-season dessert pear known for its exceptionally sweet flavor and fine, smooth texture. It’s a small, gourmet variety often compared to the famous Seckel pear.
Identification
- Color: Yellow-green with a slight blush
- Shape: Small and rounded
- Skin: Smooth and thin
- Flesh: Fine-grained and juicy
- Taste: Intensely sweet with a honeyed flavor
Growth and Seasonality
Harvested in late fall, Dana Hovey pears grow well in cooler climates and are excellent for long-term storage.
Uses and Benefits
Ideal for fresh eating and gourmet platters. They’re rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, promoting heart health and smooth digestion.
31. Orcas Pear
Orcas pears are a Pacific Northwest variety prized for their large size, juicy texture, and early ripening. They’re known for their reliability and productivity in home orchards.
Identification
- Color: Yellow with a red blush
- Shape: Large, classic pear shape
- Skin: Smooth and thin
- Flesh: Juicy and slightly grainy
- Taste: Sweet with a mild tang
Growth and Seasonality
These pears are among the earliest to ripen, typically harvested in late summer. They grow particularly well in the Pacific Northwest.
Uses and Benefits
Excellent for fresh eating, baking, and canning. Orcas pears offer hydration, natural sugars, and vitamins C and K to support overall wellness.
