Subarashii Kudamono, which means "wonderful fruit" in Japanese, began with a gift. While on business in Japan, Joel Spira, American inventor and founder of Lutron Electronics, was introduced to the legendary Asian pear and was captivated by its unique flavor. Inspired to bring that experience home, he and his wife Ruth, a botanist, set out to grow Asian pears in Pennsylvania’s fertile Lehigh Valley.

In 1984, with guidance from experts around the world, the Spiras planted their first orchard and eventually developed and patented seven exclusive varieties of Asian pears. Each pear is known for its delicate golden-brown skin, crisp texture, and supremely juicy sweetness, and these varieties are available nowhere else in the world.

The Asian pear has long carried cultural meaning, traditionally symbolizing “good fortune” or good luck, particularly in business, much like the pineapple represents hospitality and the apple salutes educators. For this reason, Subarashii Kudamono pears make a thoughtful gift to share as a gesture of gratitude or well wishes.

Today, Subarashii Kudamono continues to handpick each harvest with care, honoring the Spiras’ vision of cultivating fruit that is as meaningful as it is delicious.