BOSC
Bosc stand out in a crowd for many reasons. Their long curved stem, and elegant elongated neck which widens gradually to a full rounded base, creates a silhouette that is unique among pears. Bosc are also unique for their color: a warm earthy brown that appears with russeting over the surface of the skin.

Russeting is a natural appearance for Bosc. The russeting may cover the entire surface of the pear, or it may just be seen over a small portion of the skin. In either case, the quality of the fruit is not effected.

Available: September through April

COMICE
Comice appear in all sizes, but their shape is unique among varieties; having a rotund body with a very short, well-defined neck. They are most often green in color, and sometimes have a red blush covering small to large areas of the skin surface. However, some newer strains are almost entirely red in color. The succulent Comice can grow to be very large, and the jumbo sized beauties are often the ones that appear in gift boxes. Comice, however, come in all sizes and all are exceptionally juicy and sweet.

Available: September through February

GREEN ANJOUS
Anjous are recognizable for their egg-shaped appearance: having a larger spherical lower portion that begins a gradual taper above the mid-point to a smaller rounded top. They are commonly referred to simply as "Anjou" (as opposed to their Red Anjou counterparts), or sometimes called d' Anjou, and very infrequently referred to as Beurrй d' Anjou.

Available: October through June

RED ANJOU
With a silhouette identical to Green Anjous, Red Anjous are just as easy to identify by their shape. Although there are other red varieties of pears available, such as Red Bartlett, Red Anjous are recognizable for their near egg-shaped appearance; having a large spherical lower potion that begins a gradual and even taper above the mid-point to a smaller, rounded top. The color of Red Anjous varies from pear to pear, however they are generally dark, maroon red in color.

Available: October through May

STARKRIMSON
The Starkrimson pear is a brilliant and solid red. As it ripens, it may turn even more brilliant! This variety shares similar taste and texture to the Bartlett pears, but may have a more noticible floral note to its aroma and taste. Starkrimson pears are becoming easier to find around the country. If you see some at your local store, don't pass up the opportunity to try this beautiful and tasty variety.

Available: August through January