McDermand Pear (Pyrus ‘McDermand’)
A resilient pear tree bred for extreme cold hardiness and dependable fruit production in northern climates!
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Size | Height: 12–15 ft Spread: 8–10 ft |
| Growth Rate | Medium: Fills out at a moderate pace. |
| Fruit | Small to medium size (about 2.5 inches), yellow-green skin, excellent flavor and texture; great for canning and fresh eating. |
| Flowers | Classic white pear blossoms in spring. |
| Hardiness Zone | USDA Zone 3: One of the hardiest pears available, perfect for the Black Hills. |
Why the Black Hills Needs a McDermand Pear Tree
Growing fruit in the unpredictable Black Hills climate can be a challenge, but the McDermand Pear makes it possible! This variety was developed specifically to thrive where other pears fail.
- Exceptional Winter Hardiness: Rated for Zone 3, this tree can handle the severe cold snaps and long winters typical of our region. You can finally reliably grow a pear tree!
- Late Blooming, Frost Resistant: A major challenge in the Black Hills is late spring frosts damaging early blossoms. The McDermand Pear blooms later than many other varieties, significantly reducing the risk of frost loss and ensuring a more consistent harvest.
- Delicious, Versatile Fruit: Don’t settle for store-bought pears. These trees produce flavorful, high-quality fruit that is excellent for eating fresh off the tree, canning, or making preserves.
- Compact Size: The manageable height makes harvesting easy and fits well into standard residential landscapes and home orchards without overwhelming the yard.
- Reliable Pollinator: Like most pears, it requires cross-pollination. It is an excellent pollinator for other hardy pears, such as the ‘Golden Spice’ or ‘Fedorova’, or a nearby Pyrus ussuriensis (Ussurian Pear). Planting two compatible varieties guarantees fruit set.
Take the gamble out of fruit gardening. Plant a resilient McDermand Pear tree and enjoy a reliable bounty of delicious, home-grown pears year after year!