Flowering Quince, Chaenomeles
Beautiful in and out of flower, flowering quince creates an attractive display as a specimen or when trained to grow up or along a brick wall.
Flowering quince grows well in full sun. It tolerates partial shade but produces fewer flowers. The soil should be of average fertility, moist, slightly acidic and well drained. This shrub is tolerant of pollution and urban conditions.
Flowering quince can be included in shrub and mixed borders. It is very attractive when grown against a wall, and its spiny habit makes it useful for barriers. Use it along the edge of a woodland or in a naturalistic garden. The dark stem stands out well in winter.
C. speciosa (common flowering quince) is a large, tangled, spreading shrub. It grows 6–10' tall and spreads 6–15'. Red, white, pink or coral flowers are borne in late winter, followed by fragrant, greenish yellow fruit. Many cultivars are available, including the popular ‘Toyo-Nishiki,’ which produces red, pink and white flowers all on the same plant. ‘Cameo’ is a low, compact selection with double, apricot pink blooms. ‘Jet Trail’ is also a low grower but has pure white blossoms. ‘Texas Scarlet’ produces bright red flowers and is also known for its fruit.
Features: spreading, deciduous shrub with spiny branches; red, pink, white and orange spring flowers; fragrant fruit
Hardiness: zones 5–8
Notes: One of the loveliest of the later-winter shrubs, quince adds drama and color on even the coldest days.