Shipova

(Sorbus aucuparia x pyrus) Shipova is an intergeneric hybrid – a rarely seen cross between two different genera. Its parents are the European Pear (Pyrus communis) and the Common Whitebeam (Sorbus aria). The hybrid, also known as the Bollwiller Pear, first arose at Bollwiller in Alsace, France, before 1619, and has mostly been propagated by grafting since then. It is nearly sterile, only rarely producing any viable seeds. A small to medium-sized tree growing about 15’ tall, it is self-fertile but generally produces larger crops when planted beside pear trees that bloom at the same time. The fruit is a pome about 2” long. The flesh of shipova is semi-solid, buttery, sweet and fragrant which tastes similar to an Asian Pear and for fresh eating, it is said to be unsurpassed.