Chaenomeles japonica

Japanese Flowering Quince

Orange-red to scarlet flowers occur in early to mid-April and are born on one-year-old wood just before the leaves fully emerge, creating an excellent dispersal of coloring throughout the shrub. Sparsely produces small, apple-like fruits, commonly called quinces, that are edible if used in preserves; harvest in October. Widely adapted to different soils and microclimates. Place in full sun location for best flower display, although it is tolerant to partial shade. Subject to occasional scale and mite infestation, apple scab, and fireblight. Leaf spot causes lateral leaves to drop prematurely; abundant rainfall early in the growing season can also cause this problem. Some pruning is needed to maintain form, and spiny branching can make that difficult. Rejuvenate periodically by pruning to a quite low (6") framework. Collects trash in the branches. Rabbits like to chew up the twigs and small branches. Little seasonal interest after the one week of flower show, restricting its usability.