Flowering Quince

Chaenomeles japonica - Japanese Flowering Quince

Origin:  Japan and other parts of Asia

Characteristic: mounding, arching, somewhat open. Most are thorny.

Size:  varies, can be up to 10' or low growing at 2 - 3'

Foliage:grows alternately along stems. Ovate to oblong, up to 2: or more. Serrated margins. Stipule (leaf-like growth at base of new leaves that falls off as true leaf matures). Medium green, with pale green undersides.

Flower, Fruits and Seeds: solitary flowers all along the stem appear prior to new leaves. The species is deep pink to red, but many colors are available in varieties ... salmon, yellow, apricot, pink, white, bi-colored pink and white, etc. Fruit is a pomo (similar to apple).

Environmental Preferences: full and part sun, likes regular moisture, acidic pH and organics.

Uses: accent, specimen, cut flower, indoor forcing, formal and informal hedges, japanese gardens, utility (jams and jellies), blossoms attract birds

Pests/Diseases: Indistructible

Propagation: seed, cuttings

Pruning: can take pruning to shape or limit growth at any time, but bud and bloom season is a good time for the job, as the branches can be used for indoor arrangements.

Sunset Zones: 1 - 21

Comments: In the Sacramento area, flowering quinces are one of the earliest of the blooming shrubs, breaking bud around the end of January. It is a delightful, bright spot when the days are overcast. After blossoming the larger shrubs can become gangly, so don't be afraid to keep it in check with your pruning tools..

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