President Heron is a high quality French dessert pear. Although it was raised right at the end of the 19th century it is very much in the tradition of French / Belgian dessert pears of the first half of the 19th century.
The fruits are quite large, with an attractive golden green skin, and ripen in mid-September. They can be kept in a fridge for several months, but need careful handling because they are easy to bruise. The fine flesh has a buttery consistency and a mild sweet flavour.
The tree is a reliable and regular bearer, and starts fruiting from a young age. It seems resistant to most diseases. Although not self-fertile it is readily pollinated by most other pears that flower in the middle of the pear blossom season.
President Heron is widely grown in France, and is a good choice for the home orchard.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2024.