This clone (PI 224090) was introduced from Tokyo university, Hongo, Tokyo, Japan in March 1955 as 'Yarr Li'. More recent importations have used the spelling 'Ya Li'. This is an old variety, commonly cultivated in the Shansi, Hopeh, Shantung and Honan Provinces of Northeastern China.'This is probably the most widely known pear of north China. It is large, has an attractive yellow color, and is distinctly pyriform or pear shaped, resembling the European pears very much. The calyx is deciduous. This is undoubtedly the most attractive pear of north China when judged from the viewpoint of Americans. The flesh is hard, juicy, and has a sweet flavor. It is not in ideal condition to eat until winter, and is at its best after the holidays. It is a splendid keeper and can be had on the market from October until March in north China. While it is grown only in northern China, the Chinese are so fond of it, and it is such a remarkable keeper and shipper, that large quantities are shipped to central and even southern China. The Chinese regard this and the Pai Li their two best varieties. The flesh is too firm for American taste. This appears to be a hybrid. The young trees blight very readily in the one-year-old wood when inoculated. It may prove of value in breeding long keeping varieties.' -- F.C. Reimer. 1919. Report of a trip to the Orient to collect and study Oriental pears.