Chaenomeles cathayensis - Chinese Flowering Quince

Our Chaenomeles cathayensis is an unusual, vigorous, deciduous shrub that flowers in Spring, together or just before the new leaves appear. A fantastic ornamental the Chinese Flowering Quince originates from China which produces large, edible fruits later on in the year. With the shrub having spiny shoots and thorns, it can make an effective barrier when planted, especially in hedging. During the spring, masses of pinkish -peach flowers are formed in small clusters which stand out against its tinted purple, simple shaped leaves.  Later on in the year, the leaves turn green. The huge, large apple sized, rounded fruits mature from September. They are hard when raw, but deliciously fragrant when cooked, excellent for jellies or jams. It grows equally well in full sun or partial shade; a well drained but moist soil is optimal, but it will grow well on almost any soil which is not too alkaline. It is hardy to temperatures as low as -20c.