Dwarf Quince, Maule's quince, Japanese Flowering Quince

Chaenomeles japonica

Physical Characteristics

Chaenomeles japonica is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 2 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in April, and the seeds ripen from November to January. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

E. Asia - Japan

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade; Ground Cover;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[2, 3, 4, 11, 177, 183]. Very harsh and acid raw but fragrant when cooked, imparting a strong pleasant flavour to jams and jellies[1, 200], it is especially good cooked with apples in apple pies[K]. The fruit is apple-shaped and about 4cm in diameter[200]. The rich aromatic juice, as tart as a lemon, is squeezed and used for culinary purposes[183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known