Hendre Huffcap Pear

History: Hendre Huffcap was first recorded in England either in 1923 or 1963. The confusion stems from whether it and another variety called Lumberskull, which was recorded first in 1923, are actually the same variety. Hendre Huffcap remains a popular perry pear in England. 

Why We Grow It: This popular English perry pear has endured due to the high quality juice it produces which is great on its own and in blends. The tree bears heavily and reliably, although some thinning is recommended since the branches can break under the weight of its own crops.

Canadian Hardiness Zone: 5

Soil Preference: Sandy loam, loam, clay loam. Prefers average to moist conditions with well-drained soils, avoid planting anywhere that floods for more than two weeks in the spring. 

Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Vigorous but somewhat floppy, large, has regular but heavy crops which can break limbs. Resistant to scab.

Sun/Shade: Full sun (approx. 8-10 hours of sun daily)

Pollination: Requires a pollinator of a different pear variety (European or Asian) that blooms around the same time  

Flowering Time: Middle

Ripens: Early October

Storage: Process within 2 weeks

Recommended Use: Perry

Size including roots:

• 100-200 cm whip, 1 year grade
• 100 cm+ with 3 or more branches, 30 cm or more, 2 year grade
• 50-80 cm, B-grade