Chaenomeles japonica * Flowering Quince

Chaenomeles japonica is a low growing shrub. The Flowering Quince produces white to orange to red flowers Winter into Spring. Chaenomeles japonica is widly tolerant of garden conditions, bad soil, poor water, little or no water and the Flowering Quince soldiers on. The branches of Chaenomeles are even more spiny when treated roughly. Flowers are often produced on older wood. The Flowering Quince grows 2-3 feet tall and gradually spreads to 6 feet or more. In the Fall small 1.5" edible fruit may be produced. They are excellent for jam and fragrance. The Flowering Quince does best in full sun with moderate moisture and decent drainage. Chaenomeles japonica is Winter hardy to below 0° F. The fruit of the Flowering Quince is edible cooked as a jam but rather bitter and tart. There are a number of edible quince varieties and I often use the fruit in various recipes.