Chojuro Asian Pear Tree

About the Chojuro Asian Pear Tree

The Chojuro Asian Pear Tree (Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Chojuro’) is a longtime favorite known for its distinctive butterscotch flavor and excellent keeping quality. Introduced from Japan in 1895, this classic Asian pear variety produces medium-sized fruit with green- to yellow-brown russeted skin and crisp, juicy white flesh.

Often compared to grocery store Asian pears, Chojuro truly shines when grown at home, where its rich sweetness and complex caramel-like notes fully develop. The fruit is high in natural sugars, offering a satisfying crunch and refreshing juiciness. Chojuro pears can store for up to 20 weeks under proper refrigeration, making them one of the best winter-keeping Asian pear varieties.

The tree is productive and reliable, ripening in late August, typically after New Century. For best flavor and texture, harvest when the fruit first turns yellow-brown and allow it to finish ripening off the tree if needed.

How to Grow Chojuro Asian Pear

Chojuro is a moderately vigorous, productive tree that performs well in USDA Zones suited for Asian pears, requiring approximately 500 chill hours. Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for best results.

This Asian pear tree requires a pollinator for optimal fruit set. Pair with another Asian pear such as New Century or Hosui, or a compatible European pear like Bartlett.

Regular watering during dry periods helps maintain fruit quality, as prolonged drought can reduce sweetness and texture. With proper care, Chojuro rewards growers with dependable harvests of crisp, flavorful pears that store beautifully well into winter.