Ya Li Pear

History: Little is known about the origins of Ya Li pears in the West, aside from the fact that it originated in a northeastern part of China and is very old. The name Ya Li literally translates from Mandarin as 'duck pear,' named for its resemblance to the tail of a duck. It remains popular in many Asian countries today and is also grown in numerous Western nations.  

Why We Grow It: Ya Li bears large, yellow-skinned pears of good quality. Unlike many Asian pears which have a rounder shape more akin to apples, the fruit of Ya Li is more pear-shaped. The tree is quite vigorous, known for heavy crops, and generally disease resistant. 

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: Very vigorous with an upright and dense growth pattern, large, produces heavy crops. Somewhat resistant to scab and resistant to mildew and fireblight.

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. Seuri is an excellent pollination partner. 

Flowering Time: Early

Ripens: Late October

Storage: Does not store well

Recommended Use: Fresh eating

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