An·jou Pronunciation: \ˈan-ˌjü, äⁿ-ˈzhü\
1 region & former province NW France in Loire valley capital Angers;2 a large sweet ovoid pear having a usually yellowish-green skin

Anjou Spa & Salon takes its name from the the D'Anjou pear, a staple of Oregon's agriculture industry for almost 70 years.

What is an Anjou?

Anjou (d’Anjou) pears are the most abundant pear variety in the United States. You'll find Anjou’s available in most produce departments in the U.S. almost year round.  The flesh is white with abundant juice and a sweet brisk flavor. It is a naturally sweet pear, light green in color with a yellow tinge when ripe. Anjou pears have exceptional keeping qualities.

Any fresh Anjou pear eaten in the United States is likely from Hood River County in Oregon. Hood River and Wenatchee, Wash., are the main producers of the Anjou pear in the U.S. What Red Delicious is for apples in Washington State, the green Anjou is for pears grown in Hood River.The Anjou is harvested in Hood River the first week of September and is considered a winter pear. Most of the winter pears produced and one-third of the Bartletts go to the fresh market.

Support Oregon’s Local Anjou Pear Market

Pear growers have been faced with competition from the Southern Hemisphere. The marketing of pears produced in the Southern Hemisphere, primarily Chile and Argentina, coincide with marketing of winter pears from Hood River County. Low prices and aggressive marketing for Chilean pears have been creating a tough market for local pear growers. It is starting to impact the ability of growers to stay in business

Consumers should ask produce managers where the fruit is from and tell them they want fruit from the United States. Imports do not have to comply with the same regulations and standards as do growers. Be sustainable. Support locals!

Pear Health Benefits

According to Pear Bureau Northwest, pears help reduce the risk of cancer, fight heart disease and are helpful for people with non-insulin diabetes. Pears are low fat, contain fiber and no cholesterol. Some studies show that Pectin contained in the fiber reduces serum cholesterol in the blood.

Pear Symbolism

Pear trees can live for a very long time, and they are often used in China as a symbol for longevity and immortality. Pear blossoms with raindrops are a sight of special beauty, and the phrase is used to describe beautiful women. In ancient Rome, pears are sacred to Venus, the Roman goddess of love. An aphrodisiac, they enhance lust and passion by stimulating the Sacral Chakra.