Kieffer Pears
Pears are ready!
Kieffer pears, known for their sweet taste and crisp texture, are a natural cross between an Asian sand pear and a European Bartlett; this is an old variety of pear.
They are naturally hard, like an apple, which makes them a great addition to salads.
Slowly soften through winter, if you don't want to enjoy them now.
Medium-Large, yellow fruit with reddish blush from the sun.
Good for canning, baking, preserves, and/or pear honey.
Storage
If you prefer to soften them: Store in a cool, dry place to allow to soften.
Specifics
Season: Early October to first frost (approx. early November)
Fruit: Roundish, oval, narrowing at both ends with the greater diameter near the center.
Size: Medium to large
Color: Yellow, orange yellow in the sun, with light red flush
Skin: Smooth, with many brown russet dots
Cavity: Small, narrow
Stem: Stout, straight, swollen at base, length short to medium
Basin: Small, corrugated, russeted
Calyx: Large, usually open, segments curved
Flesh: Melting, yellowish white, juicy
Quality: Fair when ripened off tree
Core: Large, open, surrounded by line of grit
Seed: Medium in size, black