Growing Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles): Early Blooms, Spiny Stems & Easy Care

Chaenomeles (Flowering Quince) – Spring Blooms Before Leaves, Tough & Adaptable

Pronunciation: kih-nom'uh-leez

Three species and many hybrids make up this genus of deciduous, spiny shrubs from Japan and China. Showy, bowl-shaped blooms open in spring before leaves emerge and continue as leaves expand. The 2-inch apple-like fruit is not particularly ornamental. Dense, spreading habit suits specimens, espaliers, or hedges.

Culture

• Light/Water: Full sun for most blooms/fruit; tolerates dry soils.
• Soil/pH: Moderately fertile, well-drained; becomes chlorotic on very high pH. Fertilize once in early spring with 10-10-10.
• Pests/Diseases: Susceptible to fire blight, canker, rust, apple scab, and scale insects.

Pruning Calendar

Mid-Spring: Prune back to strong buds after flowering to shape. Rejuvenate overgrown shrubs by removing about ¼ of oldest shoots each year.