Asian Pear
Hosui Pollination Guide
Hosui requires a compatible pollination partner to produce fruit.
Without a different compatible variety nearby, Hosui will bloom but won't set fruit. You need at least one partner variety planted within 50–100 feet. Choose from the compatible varieties listed below — they bloom at the right time and have compatible genetics.
Hosui Quick Facts
Chill Hours
450 hours
Hardiness Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Harvest
August to September
Pollination Note
Asian pears can be pollinated by European pears if bloom times overlap
Planning Your Orchard
Pear trees should be planted within 50–100 feet of a compatible partner. European pears (Bartlett, Anjou, Bosc) cross-pollinate each other well. Asian pears can also be pollinated by European pears if bloom times overlap. Space standard pear trees 20–25 feet apart, or 12–15 feet for dwarf rootstock.
Keep a record of every tree you plant — variety, rootstock, location.
Start your free tree log →Compatible Pollination Partners
Can I Grow Hosui?
Check if your climate has enough chill hours for Hosui. Enter your zip code for an instant answer.
Check your zip code →Interactive Pollination Checker
Compare pollination compatibility across all 60+ fruit tree varieties in our database.
Open checker →Most people forget within a year.
Which pairs fruited well, what bloomed when, what you did each season — write it down from the start.
Free for up to 30 plants. No card needed.
About Hosui
Hosui means 'much water' in Japanese — and this golden-russeted Asian pear delivers explosive juiciness with rich, sweet flavor. It's considered the best-tasting Asian pear by many growers.
Growing Challenges
Russet skin is prone to cracking in wet weather; birds and wasps love the high sugar content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can European pears pollinate Hosui?
Yes, European pears like Bartlett can pollinate Asian pears like Hosui if their bloom times overlap. This is useful if you want to grow one of each type.
How close does a pollinator need to be to Hosui?
For reliable pollination, plant the partner variety within 50–100 feet of Hosui. Bees are the primary pollinators and typically work within this range. In practice, a tree in your yard or even a neighbor's nearby tree can work. The closer the trees, the more consistent the fruit set.
Can I grow just one Hosui tree?
No — Hosui requires a compatible pollination partner to produce fruit. Without a second tree of a different variety nearby, it will bloom but won't set fruit.
Other Asian Pear Varieties
Related Tools
Pollination Checker
Interactive tool to find compatible pollination partners for any fruit tree.
Can I Grow Hosui?
Check if your zip code has enough chill hours for this variety.
Chill Hour Checker
Validate chill hours for any fruit tree variety by zip code.
Frost Date Finder
Find your first and last frost dates to plan bloom protection.
Pollination data compiled from university extension services, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) pollination group charts, RosBREED cherry S-allele research, and nursery compatibility guides. Pollination compatibility can vary by region and microclimate. For best results, consult your local extension office.