SafePlants

Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles spp.)

Flowering Quinces are popular ornamental shrubs known for their vibrant spring blooms and, in some cases, edible fruit. They are often referred to as Ornamental Quinces and can bring a welcome flush of color to gardens.

Considerations for Pets

• Some varieties have thorny stems.
• The plant produces fruit.

Considerations for Children

• Some varieties have thorny stems.
• The plant produces fruit.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Chaenomeles spp. (including Chaenomeles speciosa, Chaenomeles japonica, Chaenomeles cathayensis)
• Common Names: Flowering Quince, Japanese Quince, Chinese Flowering Quince, Ornamental Quince

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Belongs to the genus Chaenomeles.
• Family: Rose family (Rosaceae)
• The hybrid Chaenomeles x superba is a cross between C. speciosa and C. japonica.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to eastern Asia.
• Widely grown in gardens.
• A tough and very hardy Chinese shrub, popular for early spring color in almost any situation in the garden.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Deciduous shrubs, typically medium-sized.
• Can grow to 3 m (9ft) by 5 m (16ft).
• Known for showy flowers in spring, in colors like red, pink, white, and orange, depending on the cultivar.
• Some varieties have glossy, dark green leaves.
• Chaenomeles x superba tends to grow wider than it is tall.
• Japanese Quince Chaenomeles Japonica shrub is a prickly shrub that is ideal for planting as a hedge or creating an espalier.
• Some cultivars, like 'Jet Trail' (C. japonica x C. speciosa), are compact, growing only to 2-4' tall and are dense, twiggy, and spiny.

Ecological Role

• Easy-to-grow deciduous shrub often grown as hedges and barriers.

Quirky Facts

• In China, Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles spp) has been used for thousands of years to celebrate the New Year.
• Flowering quince can be used as a wall-based shrub.