Poirier Duchesse d’Angoulême – AB

Description

Poirier Duchesse d’Angoulême

The Duchesse d’Angoulême pear tree is a historic French variety discovered in 1812 in Maine-et-Loire by Anne-Pierre Audusson, a nurseryman. This legendary pear takes its name from Marie-Thérèse of France, daughter of Louis XVI, who became Duchess of Angoulême by her marriage. 👑

In the middle of the nineteenth century, this variety was one of the most widely grown in France. From Anjou, its birthplace, tens of thousands of tons were shipped throughout Europe from the port of Nantes, testifying to its exceptional popularity.

Characteristics of the fruit

Duchesse d’Angoulême pears seduce with their generous size and their almost round, slightly bumpy shape. Their light yellow skin is adorned with red spots and a beautiful red cheek on the sun side. The white, semi-fine flesh offers a melting and sweet texture with an exquisite aroma.

spots

Exceptional cultivation and adaptation

The Duchesse d’Angoulême pear tree is distinguished by its remarkable hardiness. This vigorous and productive tree can be grown up to 1000 meters above sea level, withstanding temperatures down to -20°C. Its early flowering in March requires protection against late frosts.

This variety adapts perfectly to cold regions and appreciates cool, deep and well-drained soils. Avoid south-facing exposures and soils that are too calcareous.

🌿 Growing tips

The very abundant fruiting requires thinning to avoid branch breakage and to obtain large fruit. This practice optimizes the quality of the pears and preserves the health of the tree.

Pollination

The Duchesse d’Angoulême pear tree is not self-fertile and requires pollinators to fully fruit. The best pollinating varieties are the Louise Bonne pear tree, the Williams Yellow pear tree and the Conference AB pear tree.

Exceptional harvest and conservation

The harvest takes place in November, and the fruits are perfectly eaten from November to January. This variety is particularly appreciated for its remarkable shelf life : 2 to 3 months in the refrigerator.

⚠️ Important tip

Eat pears medium rare, as they tend to become mushy if they are overripe. Stored in good conditions (cool and dry), they retain all their taste qualities.

Culinary Use

Duchesse d’Angoulême pears excel in many preparations:

• Fresh consumption : Excellent quality table pear
• Pastry : Pies, crumbles, cakes
• Canned goods : Jams, compotes, fruit in syrup
• Processing : Perry, brandy

Advantages of this historic variety

• Hardiness : Resistant to -20°C and cultivated at altitude
• Productivity : High and consistent output
• Large size : Imposing and satisfying fruit
• Storage : Excellent shelf life up to 3 months
• Resistance : Good disease tolerance
• History : Authentic French fruit heritage

The Duchesse d’Angoulême pear tree embodies the excellence of the French fruit heritage. This royal variety, which has been popular for more than 200 years, continues to seduce with its large, tasty fruits and ease of cultivation. A prestigious choice for any lover of quality pears!

Our advice in video

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