Butt grows on a vigorous tree with narrow crotch angles. It is a heavy producer, but it is slow to come into production and does tend to biennialism. This pear is used exclusively in cider production; it is not suitable for fresh eating.

The late-season fruit is small and globular with lemon colored skin that is dotted with russeting. It is remarkable for the length of time it will sit on the ground without rotting, giving rise to the saying "Gather your Butts one year, mill them the next, and drink the year after." It can actually be milled four to ten weeks after harvest. The juice is astringent and fruity. It is slow to ferment but produces a high quality cider. This pear is a popular cultivar among perry makers; it is most extensively cultivated around Ledbury in Herefordshire, England. (From Brooks and Olmo: juice acidity 0.54, tannins 0.32, specific gravity 1.056.)