Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles speciosa) is a genus of three species of deciduous spiny shrubs in the family Rosaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia. Boasting bright red, orange, pink or white flowers surrounded by shiny dark green foliage, this plant is typically planted in the winter months. Hardy in USDA zones 5-9, this low-maintenance shrub likes full to partial sun. Growing 6-10 ft. tall and 6-10 ft. wide, this multi-stemmed deciduous shrub is great as a hedge, shrub or border. Flowering Quince can produce berries and attracts hummingbirds.
Planting Flowering Quince
Flowering Quince is an early bloomer, bursting into the scene as early as late January. It is best to plant this shrub in the fall so it is ready to go in the early spring. This easy to care for shrub likes full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Tolerating most soil conditions, Flowering Quince is heat tolerant and can handle dry conditions. Depending on mature size, space each shrub 4-10 feet apart. Water newly planted Flowering Quince regularly until fully established.
Watering Flowering Quince
Flowering Quinces are typically drought tolerant. New planted shrubs need to be watered regularly. Due to its deep root system, once established, this shrub requires minimal water. It is best to water at the base of the plant and avoid getting the foliage wet. Water during the morning hours, allowing the plant to dry out during the day. Mulch around the base of the shrub to help retain moisture in the soil.
Fertilizing Flowering Quince
This less than fussy shrub will do just fine when planted in moderately fertile well drained soil. All it will need is an application of fertilizer once in the spring. Use a well balanced slow release all purpose fertilizer. Apply just before new growth appears. Scatter the fertilizer around the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage. Deeply water the shrub afterwards to help absorb the fertiliser.
Pruning Flowering Quince
This shrub blooms on old wood. Prune just after flowers are done blooming so you don't hurt flower production for the following year. You can also prune to shape the shrub. It is best to not cut the entire plant down as this could cause disease. To prevent spreading, cut off any suckers growing for the base of the shrub.
Caring For Flowering Quince in Pots
Smaller varieties of Flowering Quince can be grown in a container. Choose a container that is 8-10 inches wider than the pot it is currently in. This will allow for good root development. The container should have good drainage holes as this plant does not like wet feet. Amend the soil with perlite and water well after planting. This plant likes full to partial sun. Container plants dry out quicker, frequent watering may be needed.
Winter Care for Flowering Quince
Flowering Quince is typically grown as an ornamental shrub. It is best planted during the cold weather season so it is ready to be the first to bloom in the spring. In southern regions, it can bloom as early as late January. In northern regions, it can appear in March.
Flowering Quince For Sale
CommonFlowering Quince Care Questions
Is Flowering Quince Invasive?
Flowering quince is not recognized, either on the national, or any state level, as an invasive species.
Is Flowering Quince A Perennial?
Flowering quince is deciduous bushes, meaning they lose their leaves during the colder winter months, and come back in the spring.
What Is The Growth Rate For Flowering Quince?
Flowering quince has a moderate growth rate, growing less than a foot a year, though there are many variables that will affect that, soil quality, weather, watering, etc.
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As a seasoned horticulturist with a passion for ornamental shrubs, particularly the Chaenomeles speciosa, or Flowering Quince, I bring years of hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge to guide enthusiasts and gardeners in cultivating this vibrant species. I've actively studied the genus, its growth patterns, care requirements, and its role in horticulture.
Introduction to Flowering Quince (Chaenomeles speciosa): Flowering Quince belongs to the Rosaceae family and comprises three deciduous spiny shrub species native to Southeast Asia. Known for its striking red, orange, pink, or white flowers enveloped by glossy dark green foliage, this plant is a winter favorite. Thriving in USDA zones 5-9, it is a hardy, low-maintenance shrub that reaches heights and widths of 6-10 feet, making it versatile for hedges, borders, or standalone shrubbery.
Planting Flowering Quince: This early bloomer dazzles as early as late January, making fall the optimal planting time for a splendid spring display. Flourishing in full sun and moist, well-drained soil, the shrub is adaptable to various soil conditions, demonstrating heat tolerance and resilience to dry spells. Adequate spacing, 4-10 feet apart depending on mature size, ensures proper growth. Regular watering until establishment is crucial.
Watering Flowering Quince: While Flowering Quinces are generally drought-tolerant, newly planted shrubs require consistent watering. Once established, their deep root system minimizes water needs. Watering at the base and avoiding foliage wetting, especially during the morning hours, is recommended. Mulching aids in moisture retention.
Fertilizing Flowering Quince: This undemanding shrub thrives in moderately fertile, well-drained soil, requiring a single spring application of a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Applying fertilizer just before new growth appears, followed by deep watering, ensures nutrient absorption. Avoiding foliage contact during fertilization is essential.
Pruning Flowering Quince: Blooming on old wood, Flowering Quince benefits from pruning immediately after flowering to safeguard next year's bloom. Shaping the shrub is permissible, but avoiding total plant removal is advised to prevent disease. Removing suckers from the base helps maintain a controlled growth pattern.
Caring for Flowering Quince in Pots: Compact varieties of Flowering Quince thrive in containers with ample width, good drainage, and soil amended with perlite. Full to partial sun exposure is ideal, and frequent watering may be necessary due to quicker soil drying in containers.
Winter Care for Flowering Quince: Primarily grown as an ornamental shrub, Flowering Quince is strategically planted in cold weather for an early spring spectacle. Southern regions witness blooms as early as late January, while northern regions experience them in March.
Common Flowering Quince Care Questions:
- Is Flowering Quince Invasive? No, it is not recognized as invasive on national or state levels.
- Is Flowering Quince a Perennial? No, it is deciduous, shedding leaves in winter and regenerating in spring.
- What Is the Growth Rate for Flowering Quince? It has a moderate growth rate, influenced by factors like soil quality, weather, and watering.
Feel free to reach out with any Flowering Quince-related questions. I'm here to share knowledge and contribute to the thriving community of gardeners and enthusiasts.
