Japanese Flowering Quince
Chaenomeles japonica · Deciduous Broadleaf Woody Shrub/Small Tree (Hardwood)
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental Flowering Shrub / Fruit Shrub
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species (Chaenomeles japonica)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 5a to 9b; highly tolerant of cold temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C).
About This Tree
A dense, thorny, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small woody plant forming a rounded, spreading mound. Known for bright cup-shaped flowers early in spring followed by fragrant, apple-like yellowish fruits called quinces.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, glossy dark green leaves, oblong to obovate or spatulate with finely crenate or serrated margins. Leaves feature prominent, kidney-shaped or leaf-like stipules at the base of the petioles.
Bark Characteristics
Young stems are reddish-brown to grey-brown, smooth with small lenticels and stout axillary thorns. Older stems become rough, slightly fissured, and greyish-brown.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Japan; widely cultivated in temperate regions across North America, Europe, and East Asia.
Growing Season
Leafs out in early spring, flowers heavily in late winter to early spring before full leaf emergence, produces hard pomes in late summer to autumn, and drops leaves in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires Full Sun to Partial Shade for best flowering. Needs moderate watering when establishing; highly drought-tolerant once mature. Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 3 to 6 feet in height with a spread of 3 to 6 feet. Moderate growth rate with a lifespan of 30 to 50+ years.
Special Characteristics
Extremely showy early-spring blooms, sharp defensive thorns, high urban pollution tolerance, and edible tart fruits used in jams, jellies, and liqueurs due to high pectin and vitamin C content.
Wildlife & Ecology
Early spring blossoms provide critical early nectar for bees and early pollinators. Dense, thorny branch structure offers safe nesting sites and protection for small birds from predators.