The Clapp's Favorite pear is a historic European pear variety valued for its early ripening fruit, sweet flavor, and long history in American orchards. It was originally developed in the mid-1800s by Massachusetts horticulturist Thaddeus Clapp in Dorchester, making it one of the classic heritage pears grown in North America. The variety is believed to have arisen from a cross between Bartlett and Flemish Beauty pears, combining desirable qualities from both parents. Clapp’s Favorite quickly gained popularity for its attractive fruit and dependable production in home orchards and commercial plantings. The tree typically produces large pears with smooth yellow skin often blushed with red when exposed to the sun. Inside, the flesh is white, fine-grained, and extremely juicy with a sweet flavor balanced by a slight refreshing acidity. Because of its rich juiciness and tender texture, the fruit is most often enjoyed fresh right off the tree. However, it is also commonly used in canning, baking, and making pear sauce or desserts. One distinctive feature of this pear is that it ripens earlier than many other varieties, often about a week to ten days before Bartlett. The fruit is typically harvested while still firm and allowed to finish ripening off the tree for the best flavor and texture. Although delicious, Clapp’s Favorite pears have a relatively short storage life and are best eaten soon after ripening. The tree itself is vigorous and produces fragrant white blossoms in spring that attract pollinators. Like many European pears, it is not fully self-fertile and benefits from cross-pollination with another pear variety. Good pollination partners include varieties such as Bosc, Moonglow, or Bartlett planted nearby. When properly pollinated, the tree can produce reliable crops of large, flavorful pears each season. Today, Clapp’s Favorite remains a treasured heirloom pear valued for its historic roots, refreshing taste, and versatility in the kitchen. USDA Zone: 4-8 Mature Height: OHxF 87 ~15-17' tall at Maturity; Semi-Dwarf Sun: Full Sun Pollination: Required of other European Pears Bloom Time: Early May Harvest Period: August Ships Spring 2026
