~Pear Facts~
Pears (pyrus communis) are a pome fruit relative of apples. Although they are known to predate written history, one of the earliest records of pears comes from Homer's reference to them as "Gifts of the Gods."
In North America, the first pear trees arrived with European settlers in the 1600's. The pear is thought to originate from Asia.
In China, the Pear (Li), is the
symbol of purity, serenity, and longevity.
In the world, there are 3000 known species of pears.
There are 23 different species of pears cultivated in North America and 38 in Europe.
Australian pears are non-allergenic.
The dietary fibre in pears has for some time been thought to assist in the fight against serious illnesses including some forms of cancer.
Pear trees are known to live up to 180 years and grow to 80 feet high..
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