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flowering quince

Scientific Name: Chaenomeles speciosa

Family: Rosaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Flowering Quince: A Springtime Delight

Flowering quinces (Chaenomeles spp.) are a group of shrubs cherished for their vibrant early spring blooms and potential for edible fruit. Often referred to as ornamental quinces in the West, they bring a welcome splash of color to gardens, signaling the end of winter.

Considerations for Pets

  • Thorns/Spines: Some species, such as Chaenomeles japonica, are described as having thorny stems.
  • Size: Can be planted as hedges and barriers
  • Fruit: Produces edible fruits that, while not toxic, may not be palatable or well-tolerated by all animals in large quantities.

Considerations for Children

  • Thorns/Spines: Some species, such as Chaenomeles japonica, are described as having thorny stems.
  • Fruit: Produces edible fruits that, while not toxic, may not be palatable or well-tolerated by all children in large quantities.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Chaenomeles spp.
  • Common Names: Flowering Quince, Japanese Quince, Chinese Flowering Quince, Japonica.
  • The hybrid Chaenomeles x superba is a cross between C. speciosa and C. japonica, cultivated for a wider range of flower colors and shapes.
  • One type mentioned is Chaenomeles speciosa.
  • Chaenomeles Lindl is also mentioned.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to East Asia.
  • Popular in Western gardens.
  • Hardy to zone (UK) 5 and not frost tender.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • Deciduous shrubs.
  • Chaenomeles speciosa grows to 3 meters (9 feet) tall and 5 meters (16 feet) wide at a medium rate.
  • Chaenomeles x superba tends to grow wider than it is tall.
  • Can be trained as a wall shrub.
  • Flowers are typically red, pink, or white, depending on the cultivar.
  • Fruit are small, fragrant, and golden.

Ecological Role

  • A tough and hardy shrub, popular for early spring color in gardens.
  • Fairly tolerant to different environmental conditions.
  • Can be grown in full sun or partial shade.

Traditional and Cultural Uses

  • Chaenomeles spp. has been used in China for thousands of years to celebrate the New Year.
  • Considered a heritage ornamental plant.

Quirky Facts

  • The fruit of flowering quince are edible but described as not always palatable.
  • Flowering quince shrubs and trees are easy to grow and often grown as hedges and barriers.