This shrub is best planted in shrub borders or hedges and probably best to plant a distance away from major foot traffic areas due to thorns.
Chaenomeles japonica
Japanese Flowering Quince
Tips for Homeowners:
To manage the size of the quince it is best to prune after the spring flowers. Since the thorns are a challenge it is best to wear heavy gloves and eye protection. Fruit production is affected by pruning so be careful to remove only broken or dead branches. This shrub will naturally spread by sending up new plants from the root, so remove these to keep it from spreading.
Rate this Plant:
The flowers in early spring are a delight and a sure sign that spring has sprung.
- Colorful, compact ornamental shrub
- Orange to scarlet flowers
- Ripe fruit (quince) is fragrant
Height: 2-3 ft
Spread: 3-6 ft
Zone: 5-8
Color: Red
Interesting Notes about Japanese Flowering Quince:
In the spring this shrub will be heavily adorned with flowers as long as there is plenty of sun. Since the flowers occur on old wood the plant is one of the earliest to bloom. Flowers are followed by an apple-like fruit called quince which is bitter when fresh, but can be used for jellies and preserves.
Characteristics & Attributes
Attributes:
- Mass Planting
- Edible
- Naturalizing
- Fragrant
- Spring Bloomer
- Border or Bed
- Cut Flower/ Foliage
Foliage Color:
- Green
Exposure:
- Full Sun
- Partial Sun
Attracts Wildlife:
- Attracts Butterflies
Habit:
- Upright
Season of Interest (Flowering):
- Spring
Soil Moisture:
- Average Water