Chaenomeles speciosa aka Flowering Quince

Chaenomeles speciosa, or flowering quince, belongs to the rose family. This shrub loses its leaves each year. It comes from China, with some sources also listing northern Myanmar. It grows about 6–10 feet [1.8–3 metres] tall in gardens. Its width often matches or exceeds its height. RHS gives a wider limit of 13 feet [4 metres]. Several stems form a dense, rounded crown with arching branches. Its growth rate is moderate.

Thin, grey-brown twigs bear thorns and small, dark buds. The light brown bark stays smooth, with raised lenticels. New leaves start bronze-red, then turn glossy dark green. Each leaf has a toothed edge and an oval shape. Leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Broad stipules sit at the base of each leaf stalk. The leaves offer little autumn colour and may fall green.

Red or scarlet flowers open before the leaves fully unfold. Some species accounts also report pink or white flowers. The main bloom runs from March to April. Flowers have five petals and grow alone or in clusters. Small, apple-like pomes follow, turning yellow-green as they ripen. Their skin has tiny dots, and the flesh stays firm. Harvest comes in autumn, when the fruit has a strong scent. Raw fruit tastes sharp and bitter, but cooks use it for jam and jelly. RHS warns that seeds contain toxins and must be removed. It also warns against pets eating the fruit.

Full sun gives the best bloom, though plants accept partial shade. They prefer moist soil that drains well, including loam. They also grow in clay and tolerate several soil types. Established shrubs cope with short dry spells. High soil pH can cause leaves to turn yellow. Sources rate hardiness as USDA zones 4–8 and UK H6. Cold winters and spring frost can harm flower buds. Flowers grow on older wood, so prune after bloom. Pruning at that time can reduce the current fruit crop. Remove root suckers to limit spread.

Dense, thorny growth suits hedges, screens, barriers, and shrub borders. The flowers draw butterflies and hummingbirds. Cut branches can flower indoors during winter. Aphids, scale insects, and mites may damage the plant. Scab and fungal leaf spots can cause heavy leaf loss. Fireblight, blossom wilt, and brown rot are other risks. Honey fungus occurs less often. Rabbits can damage stems, and deer sometimes browse the shrub.