Luscious Pear Tree

About the Luscious Pear Tree

The Luscious Pear Tree lives up to its name, combining exceptional flavor, cold hardiness, and dependable performance—especially in northern gardens. Developed at South Dakota State University specifically for challenging climates, this variety is prized for its good resistance to fire blight, making it a smart choice for gardeners who want fewer disease worries and more reliable harvests.

Luscious produces medium-sized, bright yellow pears with a soft red blush and a juicy, sweet flavor that’s richer and more intense than Bartlett. The flesh is melting yet firm, staying solid to the core when ripe. Best enjoyed fresh, this dessert-quality pear ripens in late September and holds its eating quality for up to two weeks in storage.

Beyond the fruit, the tree itself adds standout beauty to the landscape. Its upright, globe-shaped form, glossy green foliage, and striking red fall color make it as ornamental as it is productive. Hardy into Zone 4, Luscious performs well in a wide range of soils and settings, from open yards to urban landscapes.

Luscious Pear trees require a pollinator for fruit set (recommended options listed below). While pollen-sterile, they reward gardeners with excellent flavor, resilience, and classic pear character—especially where cold winters and disease pressure are concerns.