Gelbmöstler grows on a very vigorous, large tree that has good scab resistence. DNA analysis has determined that this tree is triploid, and will therefore require two diploid pollinenizers for full fertility. The bark of the tree has a distinctive tesselated appearance.

Originating from the Lake Constance area in Switzerland and Austria, this tree is first recorded in 1854 by the pomologist Eduard Lucas. Its name means "golden wine pear" and it produces a juice that is very astringent and must be blended to produce a palatable perry. The fruit is fairly large and globular, with a blushed yellow skin that is speckled with russet dots. The flesh is coarse grained. Gelbmostler ripes gradually and has a tendency to drop prematurely, hence one of its alternative names, Tropfler, "drip pear." The fruit quickly becomes overripe and it cannot be stored for any length of time.

In eastern Switzerland, its area of origin, the number of Gelbmostler trees has been significantly diminished by fireblight, and it is no longer recommended for planting in this region.