A natural bud sport off of the Bartlett (genetic mutation in one part of the tree), the Red Bartlett is nearly identical to the original Bartlett Pear except for its red skin, which turns bright red when ripe. Like all European pears, it should be allowed to ripen off the tree while still darker red. It has the classic pear shape. This pear variety is excellent for fresh eating but also for canning and cooking since it has a pleasant, sweet taste and preserves its firm texture even when heated.

The tree blooms white in the spring and is a vigorous grower. They bloom slightly later in the spring, and the fruit is generally ready to harvest in late August to early September.

Red Bartlett pears are partly self-fertile but will bear much heavier with another pear nearby. The Anjou, Red Anjou, Moonglow, and Kieffer will pollinate the Bartlett as long as they are planted within 100 feet of each other. In windy areas, it’s often a good idea to plant the trees closer together.