Pear (Asian), 20th Century, Bare Root

Pear (Asian), 20th Century (Pyrus pyrifolia ‘Nijisseiki’)

20th Century, also known as Nijisseiki, is one of the most popular and widely grown Asian pear varieties. Renowned for its crisp, juicy texture and delicately sweet flavor, this golden-yellow, apple-shaped pear offers the perfect balance of sweetness and mild acidity. It ripens in late summer, and the fruit holds exceptionally well in cold storage, often keeping for several months while maintaining its crunch and flavor — making it a great option for homesteaders and orchardists seeking long-lasting fresh fruit.

Originally developed in Japan in the late 1800s, 20th Century is partially self-fertile, but planting with another Asian pear (like Shinseiki or Chojuro) significantly improves yield. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and performs well in USDA Zones 5–9. With its early spring white blossoms that attract pollinators and its dependable productivity, 20th Century is a cornerstone variety for diverse, regenerative orchards and food forests.

Key Characteristics

• Crisp texture and refreshingly sweet flavor
  20th Century produces round, golden-yellow pears with a smooth, crisp bite and subtle floral sweetness. Often described as “apple-like” in texture, they’re ideal for fresh eating and fruit salads.
• Excellent storage life
  One of the best Asian pears for long-term storage, the fruit can last up to 3 months in cool conditions while retaining its texture and flavor — a major advantage for small farms and home growers.
• Partially self-fertile with better yields from cross-pollination
  Will produce some fruit on its own, but crops are heavier and more reliable when planted near compatible varieties like Shinseiki, Chojuro, or Hosui.
• Attractive tree for food forests and orchard guilds
  With upright growth, spring blossoms, and productive habit, 20th Century is well-suited to food forests, fruit tree guilds, or backyard orchards. Pair with dynamic accumulators, aromatic herbs, or nitrogen-fixers to support soil health and pollination.
• Pollinator-friendly spring blooms
  Early white flowers provide a valuable nectar source for bees and beneficial insects in spring, making this tree not only productive but ecologically supportive.

Product Details

• Sun requirements: Full sun
• Soil requirements: Medium, well-drained
• Bloom time: Early spring
• Bloom color: White
• Fruit qualities: Round, golden-yellow skin; crisp, juicy flesh; sweet, refreshing flavor
• Fruit uses: Fresh eating, salads, long-term storage
• Fruit ripening month: Late August to early September
• Required chill hours: ~400–600
• Pollination requirements: Partially self-fertile; best with another Asian pear
• Pollination partners: Shinseiki, Chojuro, Hosui, or Ya Li
• USDA Hardiness zones: 5–9

20th Century Asian pear is a must-have for growers who value flavor, crispness, and long storage. It's an excellent fit for regenerative orchards, home gardens, or anyone seeking dependable, high-quality fruit.