Botanical profile

Pyrus communis 'Cold Snap'

Latin name
Pyrus communis Cold Snap
Common name
'Cold Snap' Pear
Type
Fruit tree
Family
Rosaceae

Pyrus communis ‘Cold Snap’ is a hardy and vigorous pear tree, specially selected for its exceptional tolerance to late frosts, ideal for temperate to cool climates like Quebec. It produces juicy, firm, sweet-tart fruits with yellowish-green skin, often tinged with red when ripe, perfect for fresh consumption, compotes, and homemade preserves. This cultivar is distinguished by an abundant white bloom in spring, which attracts pollinators while beautifying the garden. With a rounded and well-structured habit, this pear tree integrates harmoniously into residential orchards, edible gardens, and sunny landscape designs. Easy to grow in full sun and well-drained soil, ‘Cold Snap’ combines hardiness, reliable yield, and quality fruit for gardeners looking for a robust and decorative fruit tree.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3 to 8
Exposure
Full sun
Watering
Regular watering
Fertilization
Apply a balanced organic fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium in early spring (March-April). On sandy soil, a second application may be necessary in summer.
Soil type
Deep, fertile, well-drained soil.
Minimum temperature
'-34°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Mid-spring (May)
Flower color
White
Fruiting
Yellow-green pears tinged with red, juicy sweet-tart flesh for fresh eating, compotes and preserves
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Pyramidal shape
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
15–20 ft (4.5–6 m)
Width
15–20 ft (4.5–6 m)
Growth rate
Moderate growth
Vegetable garden and yield

Companion planting, spacing and harvest

Fruit tree type
Pear tree
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.