Magness is a high quality late-season eating pear, developed by the USDA in the mid 20th century. It was named in honor of Dr. John R. Magness, long-time director of the USDA's apple and pear breeding program. The Magness pear is a cross between Comice - generally considered the best-flavored of all dessert pears - and the well-regarded American pear, Seckel. The flavor is excellent, with the buttery melting flesh and few grit cells.