Kieffer Pear Tree

The standard Kieffer pear grows to a height of about 20′ and a spread of around 20′ at maturity. The dwarf variety grows to a height of 12–15′ with a spread of about 10′.

The Kieffer pear grows best in slightly acidic, deep, heavy, and moist (but well-drained) soil. Other soil types are tolerated, but the tree may produce a lighter crop. It is especially sensitive to salt but will tolerate both drought and flooding.

This tree: 

• Produces large, long, golden yellow fruit with a crimson blush. The flesh is crisp, white and coarse in texture–good for canning, baking, preserves and pear honey.
• Yields ripe fruit typically in mid-September or mid-October. Pick while the fruit is still hard and store in a cool place.
• Bears a heavy crop, beginning when young and continuing dependably for many years.
• Blooms late in the season with white flowers.
• Tolerates hot climates.
• Is available in standard and dwarf sizes. Our standard Kieffer seedlings are budded onto whole rootstock, and our dwarf seedlings are grafted to Quince or Quince A (Malling A).
• Is self-fertile but provides a better crop when planted in multiples.
• Has a chill hours (CU) requirement of 350–400. (Chill hours are the average hours of air temperature between 32° and 45° F in a typical winter season.)
• Features simple leaves that are glossy green, have fine teeth on the margin and provide golden bronze fall color.
• Grows in an oval to rounded shape.
• Is practically immune to blight.

Pear orchards are considered valuable habitats for wildlife.  The fruit of pear trees are attractive to birds and squirrels.