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syn: Bonne de Malines, Nélis d'Hiver, La Bonne Malinoise, Thouin, Bonne Thérèse
Pear Winter Nellis
$50.00
The Winter Nelis pear is a classic, late-season heirloom variety (botanically Pyrus communis) prized for its sweet, buttery flesh and exceptional storage capabilities. Despite its small, russeted appearance, it is highly regarded for fresh eating, baking, and pairing with cheese. [1, 2, 3]
The Winter Nelis pear was raised from seed around 1800 in Mechelen, Belgium, by the amateur pomologist Jean-Charles de Nelis. The tree features a naturally sparse, somewhat weeping, and spreading habit. Its fruit is typically small to medium in size, featuring a light brown, green, or yellowish-green skin that is often heavily mottled with reddish-brown russet patches. The cream-colored flesh is fine-grained, melting, and very juicy. It offers a uniquely rich, sweet, and slightly spicy vinous flavor. The pears are picked late in the season (usually autumn) and develop their full complexity after several weeks of storage.
Climate & Site: It thrives in regions with cool-to-cold winters and mild summers. It performs best in full sun and a sheltered location to protect it from harsh winds. [1, 2]
Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil. Adequate watering is crucial, especially during early establishment, dry periods, and fruit development. [1, 2]
Pollination: Winter Nelis is self-sterile and requires a cross-pollination partner that blooms at a similar time. Good companion pollinators include:
Beurre Bosc
Packham’s Triumph
Doyenne du Comice
Winter Cole
Maintenance: The tree responds well to regular formative pruning to encourage a strong framework. A preventative spray program using winter oil and copper is recommended to ward off pests and diseases, as the variety can be susceptible to pear scab.
