Notice

Colin Mills, compiler of the Hortus Camdenensis, died in late November 2012 after a short illness. As he always considered the Hortus his legacy, it is his family's intention to keep the site running in perpetuity. It will not, however, be updated in the near future.

Pyrus communis ‘Winter Nélis’

‘Fruit above the middle size, somewhat oval, broadest in the middle, narrowed towards the crown, and a little more so towards the stalk, about three inches and a quarter long, and two inches and three quarters in diameter. Eye open, slightly sunk in a rather narrow basin. Stalk one inch and a half long, inserted in a narrow and rather deep cavity. Skin dull greyish green, full of grey dots, covered partly, especially on the sunny side, with a brownish-grey russet. Flesh yellowish white, melting, buttery. Juice plentiful, sugary, rich, high flavoured, with a musky perfume. In perfection in December and January’ [George Lindley – Orchard Guide p.409/1831].

 

 

Horticultural & Botanical History

It was raised in Mechlin, Belgium by M. Jean Charles Nélis, and introduced to Britain in 1818. ‘This pear is one of the best in quality. It is a very general favourite, and the more so, perhaps, because it is always ready to enrich the dessert table through the festivities of Christmas.’ Its season can be extended well into winter if kept cool and then brought in to ripen when required. [HP pl.XXXVIII/1878]. 

‘An excellent winter Pear, in perfection in December and January. It was originally raised by M. Nélis, of Mechlin, in honour of whom it has been named; but before its present title was settled, it had acquired, in a few Gardens, the name of Bonne de Malines, which it is but justice to put aside in favour of that here adopted.’ [PM t.126/1830].

Also figured in Pears of New York, p.234/1921, the illustration used here, and in the Pomological Magazine [PM t.126/1830].

‘Colour yellowish-brown; form obovate; size under medium; quality excellent.  In use in May and June.’  [NHM vol.1 p79/1864].

 

 

History at Camden Park

Listed in the 1850 and 1857 catalogues [Pear no.26/1850]. ‘26.  April-May.  Bears well, fruit small, less juicy than some first rate sorts.  In other respects of the highest quality in respect of sweetness and flavour.’ [Diary B, MP A2951/1862].

 

 

Notes

Published May 19, 2010 - 10:03 AM | Last updated Jul 22, 2011 - 02:13 PM

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Shown are two pears, almost oval, with greenish-yellow skin heavily speckled with russet. Pears of New York p.234, 1921.

Pear ‘Winter Nélis’ | Pears of New York p.234/1921 | BHL

 

Family Rosaceae
Category
Region of origin

Garden origin, Belgium
Synonyms
  • Colmar Nélis
  • Nélis d’Hiver
  • Étourneau
  • Bonne de Malines
  • La Bonne Malinais
  • Beurré de Malines
  • Malinois Cuvelier

 
Common Name

Dessert Pear, winter
Name in the Camden Park Record

Winter Nelis 

 

 
Confidence level high