Pseudocydonia sinensis aka Chinese Quince

Pseudocydonia sinensis, or Chinese quince, belongs to the rose family. It comes from central and southern China. It grows as a small tree or large shrub. Its dense, upright branches form an oval or spreading crown. Growth is slow, and the plant can live many years. Garden plants often stand 10–20 feet [3–6 metres] tall. RHS gives a larger garden range of 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Spread ranges from 5–26 feet [1.5–8 metres] across these sources. With long, hot summers, trees may reach 59 feet [18 metres].

The bark peels away as the trunk matures. This reveals patches of grey, green, and brown. Older trunks develop grooves that add to their shape. The leaves grow alternately along the stems. Each leaf is simple, oval, and edged with fine teeth. Glossy dark green leaves may emerge with a red tint. In autumn, they turn yellow, orange, or red. Most plants shed their leaves, though some keep part of them. The bark remains a key feature after leaf fall.

Pink, scented flowers open in April and May. Their cup-shaped blooms measure about 0.1 feet [0.03–0.04 metres] across. Large, oval pomes follow, with better fruiting after hot summers. The fruit starts green and turns yellow as it ripens. Harvest comes in autumn, and the ripe fruit has a strong scent. Fruits can reach about 0.6 feet [0.18 metres] long. People use the edible flesh for jam, sweets, and preserves. They also make liqueurs and ginger drinks from it. PFAF reports no known hazards, rather than proof of complete safety.

Grow Chinese quince in full sun and a sheltered spot. It prefers fertile loam that stays moist but drains well. It also tolerates poorer soil and some drought. RHS lists acid, neutral, and alkaline soils as suitable. Protection from winter winds helps near its cold limit. North American sources place it in USDA zones 6–8. UConn also reports cold tolerance to zone 5. RHS assigns UK hardiness H4. Prune after flowering, since blooms form on older growth. Seeds can be sown outdoors in containers during autumn.

Its bark, flowers, fruit, and autumn leaves suit a specimen planting. It fits courtyard gardens and borders beside walls. The crown casts light shade, and the plant transplants well. Care needs are low, and insect pests seldom cause trouble. Fireblight can cause serious damage. Other possible diseases include leaf blight, brown rot, and powdery mildew. Honey fungus may also affect it. PFAF records traditional Korean medicinal use of the fruit. These reports do not establish that it treats illness. The scented fruit can perfume rooms. Its hard, dark red wood has been used for picture frames.