Star of Bethlehem
PearStar of Bethlehem
Origin / History
Originated at Bethlehem, Pa. Described in 1869 as a new variety in The Horticulturist, volume 24, page 334, with an accompanying figure. It was highly spoken of at the time.
Tree
Tree resembles a persimmon tree, with a low and spreading habit. Branches never upright, very enduring and able to bear heavy weights. Very productive and regular in bearing.
Fruit
Size: Very large.
Form: Similar in form to the Beurré d'Anjou, obovate-pyriform-obtuse, regular.
Stem: Not described in source.
Cavity: Not described in source.
Calyx: Not described in source.
Basin: Not described in source.
Skin: Smooth, deep yellow, slightly russeted, with a handsome red cheek on the side exposed to the sun.
Dots: Not described in source.
Flesh and flavor: Yellowish-white, somewhat coarse, buttery, melting, fine. Sweet, rich and excellent flavor.
Core and seeds: Not described in source.
Season
Sept.
Uses
Not described in source.
Subtypes / Variants
Not described in source.
Other
Source citation: Horticulturist 24:334, fig. 1869. Recorded in U.P. Hedrick, The Pears of New York (1921).
Book Sources
Described in 1 period pomological work
View original book sources (1)
— U.P. Hedrick, The Pears of New York (1921)Star of Bethlehem. i. Horticulturist 24:334, fig. 1869. Originated at Bethlehem, Pa., and described in 1869 as a new variety. Tree resembles a persimmon tree with a low and spreading habit; branches never upright, very enduring and able to bear heavy weights; very productive and regular in bearing. Fruit very large, similar in form to the Beurré d'Anjou, obovate-pyriform-obtuse, regular; skin smooth, deep yellow, slightly russeted, with a handsome red cheek on the side exposed to the sun; flesh yellowish-white, somewhat coarse, buttery, melting, fine, sweet, rich and excellent flavor; highly spoken of at the time; Sept.