Chinese Quince, Quince

Pseudocydonia sinensis

Physical Characteristics

Pseudocydonia sinensis is a deciduous Tree growing to 6 m (19ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - eaten as a sweetmeat, candied, preserved in syrup or made into a liqueur[46, 183]. The juice can also be mixed with ginger and made into a beverage[183]. The fruit is very large, up to 18cm long[105, 179].

Medicinal Uses

Antitussive The fruit is antitussive[174, 279]. It contains several medically active constituents including organic acids plus the flavonoids rutin and quercetin[279]. It is used in Korea to treat asthma, the common cold, sore throats, mastitis and tuberculosis[279].

Known Hazards

None known