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Description
Motherlode Bartlett PearEvery rare tree purchase supports historical orchard preservation Each handpicked tree includes a durable etched metal display tag. Motherlode Bartlett Pear Pyrus communis Historical Significance Also known as Triomphe de Vienne, the Motherlode Bartlett Pear is a buttery, aromatic heirloom that traces its roots to Dutch Flat, CAa historic Gold Rush era town known for its prolific fruit orchards. The grandmother tree of this variety still grows strong
Every rare tree purchase supports historical orchard preservation
Each handpicked tree includes a durable etched metal display tag.
Motherlode Bartlett Pear – Pyrus communis
Historical Significance
Also known as Triomphe de Vienne, the Motherlode Bartlett Pear is a buttery, aromatic heirloom that traces its roots to Dutch Flat, CA—a historic Gold Rush-era town known for its prolific fruit orchards. The grandmother tree of this variety still grows strong at 3,100’ elevation in Placer County. Dutch Flat was once a major fruit shipping hub, cultivated by Chinese immigrants and supported by stock from Felix Gillet’s nursery. Today, this resilient variety carries forward the orchard legacy of the Sierra foothills and one of California’s most storied horticultural regions.
How to Grow the Triomphe de Vienne Pear
Climate & Location: Best for USDA Zones 5–9. Thrives in mid- to high-elevation orchards. The original tree produces reliably at 3,100’ elevation, with harvests in late summer. Estimated chill hours: 700–900.
Soil Requirements: Grafted on OHxF 333 rootstock for disease resistance, early fruiting, and a semi-dwarf habit (12–15 ft. tall). Adaptable to various soils, including wet or heavy types. Enrich with compost before planting for best root establishment.
Planting: Choose a site with full sun and good air circulation. Plant in early spring or fall. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and keep the graft union above soil level. Mulch to suppress weeds and regulate soil moisture.
Watering: Provide deep watering weekly during the growing season, especially while fruit is forming. Mature trees tolerate moderate drought but benefit from consistent irrigation in summer.
Pruning: Prune during dormancy to develop strong structure and improve light penetration. Thin out crowded or inward-growing branches and maintain a central leader form for best productivity.
Fruit Production
Pollination: Not self-fertile. Plant alongside another European pear variety such as Comice, Bosc, or Seckel to ensure good fruit set. Cross-pollinated by bees and other beneficial insects.
Thinning: Thin fruit after natural drop in late spring to prevent limb breakage and improve fruit size. Leave 5–6 inches between remaining pears.
Fertilization: Feed with a balanced organic fruit tree fertilizer in early spring. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages leafy growth at the expense of fruit. Add compost or mulch in late fall to support soil health.
Harvesting
Fruit ripens in late summer (typically August–September) at elevations around 3,000'. Pick pears when they are mature but still firm and allow to ripen off the tree for best texture and flavor. The fruit has a rich, buttery mouthfeel with floral sweetness, softening texture, and hints of spice. Excellent for fresh eating, preserving, or culinary use.
Conclusion
The Motherlode Bartlett Pear offers a perfect blend of historical depth, rugged reliability, and gourmet flavor. Whether you’re restoring a historic orchard or expanding a modern edible landscape, this semi-dwarf heirloom brings a story-rich addition to your garden. Disease-resistant, consistently productive, and deeply rooted in California’s agricultural heritage, this is a pear tree with true orchard pedigree.
Explore our full Pear Tree Collection.
Learn more about pear tree cultivation in our Pear Tree Growing Guide.
To learn more about these historical trees, visit the Felix Gillet Institute.
Watch related videos and explore helpful tips in the media section below.
Shipping Notes
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Exchange/Return Notes
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