Shipova

Shipova: A Rare Fruit Hybrid

(× Sorbopyrus auricularis)

Shipova is an uncommon fruit tree, a hybrid between the European pear (Pyrus communis) and the whitebeam (Sorbus aria). This unique cross combines characteristics of both parent species, resulting in a fruit tree with intriguing qualities.

The Shipova tree typically grows to a manageable height of 15-20 feet on pear rootstock, and 6-8 feet on Aronia rootstock, making it suitable for smaller orchards or home gardens. The Aronia rootstock also induces it to bear fruit several years earlier. The Shipova produces white flowers in spring, followed by small, pear-shaped fruits that ripen to a yellowish-orange color in late summer or early fall.

The fruit of the shipova has a sweet, mild flavor sometimes described as a blend of pear and apple, with a hint of quince. The flesh is fine-grained and less gritty than a pear. These fruits are excellent eaten fresh and can also be used in preserves or baking.

Shipova trees are adaptable, thriving in full sun to partial shade and tolerating a range of soil types, though they prefer well-drained conditions. They’re hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and are generally resistant to many pests and diseases that affect pears.

At Humble Abode Nursery, we offer bare-root shipova trees propagated through grafting to ensure true-to-type specimens. Our trees are selected for fruit quality and adaptability to various growing conditions.

We cultivate our shipova using sustainable practices that promote overall tree health and productivity. While less common than standard fruit trees, shipova offers an opportunity to diversify your orchard with a unique and flavorful fruit.

Consider adding shipova to your property if you’re interested in rare fruits, looking to expand your home orchard, or simply want a conversation piece in your garden.

The Baby Shipova is an even more compact variety—reaching 6–8 feet in height, it’s ideal for small spaces. This self-fertile variety is hardy to USDA Zone 4 and thrives in well-drained soil with full to half-day sun.