In English-speaking countries this variety is often referred to as the 'Trout Pear' and in Germany it is recognized under the name of Forellenbirne. Origin uncertain. some authorities believe that it originated in Saxony early in the eighteenth century. From Germany it was taken to Flanders and from there to England. It was received by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society in 1823 and Leroy (1867) gives 1830 as the probably date of its introduction into France.Fruit medium in size oblong-obovate-pyriform with neck varying considerably in length. Skin smooth, deep yellow in color, usually prominently blushed, distinctive 'trout' spots, red or green in color,very attractive. Flesh unusually white, fine but slightly granular at center, sometimes buttery but often quite firm, moderaely juicy. Sweet, aromatic flavor but quite variable in dessert quality. Often fails to ripen after cold storage. Midseason. Tree moderately vigorous, upright and stiff, apple-like foliage, reasonably productive. Very susceptible to fire blight. The original tree at the Southern Oregon Branch Station succumbed to blight. -- H. Hartman 1959.
Origin probably northern Saxony, Germany and known since 1670. Introduced to Flanders and from Flanders to England. In England, it was first fruited by Thomas Andrew Knight, President of the Horticultural Society of London, who sent cions to the Honorable John Lowell, President of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society. The cultivar became common in the eastern United States during the first half of the 18th Century. The tree grows best in warm soils and fails to grow in heavy clays and cold climates. 'Forelle' means 'Trout' in German.
Known in Sweden as 'Helmershus Roda'.