Blossom on Pear 'Black Worcester', early April. "Origin uncertain, but one of the oldest pears in cultivation. It appears on the coat of arms of Worcester and was grown there before 1575 when Quen Elizabeth I saw it at Whystone Farm. It is possiby the same as the French cultivar 'de Livre' and may even date from Roman times. Tree growth vigorous, spreading, reliable and heavy cropping. It never softens to eat for dessert and needs cooking slowly for 1-2 hours. It is seldom planted today but many old trees still exist." ('Pears' by Jim Arbury and Sally Pinhey)