Belle Epine Dumas

Source: A.J. Downing, The Fruits and Fruit Trees of America (1900)

Origin and History

Known in the nursery trade under numerous French names including Due de Bourdeaux, Beurre Rochechourt, Epine du Rochoir, Beurre St. Louis, Epine de Limoges, Colmar de Lot, Epine Dumas, Comte de Limoges, Beurre de Rochoir, Emile de Rochois, and Beurre d'Elberg.

Tree Character

Vigorous grower with a pyramidal form, making it a good bearer. Young wood dull yellow brown with sharp-pointed buds.

Fruit Description

Size and Form: Medium, obovate obtuse pyriform (pear-shaped, somewhat rounded at base).

Stem: Long, set in a very small depression.

Calyx: Partially closed, in a shallow, regular basin.

Skin: Green, becoming greenish yellow when fully ripe, with small russet brown dots distributed across the surface.

Flesh and Flavor: White, buttery, half melting (semi-soft), juicy, and sweet with a peculiar (distinctive) flavor. Rated Very good.

Season

Ripens in November and December.

Identification Note: The "peculiar flavor" and russet dotting on a greenish-yellow ground are key recognition features of this variety. The combination of a small stalk depression, shallow basin, and buttery texture distinguishes it from similar pears of the same period.