Chinese Quince
Pseudocydonia sinensis
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Pl. 2DF6 — Pseudocydonia sinensis
Pseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensisPseudocydonia sinensis
IOverview
Overview
Chinese Quince, scientifically known as Pseudocydonia sinensis, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the central and southern regions of China. It thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay). Hardy in zones 5-8, this plant grows up to six meters tall. Known for its edible fruit, Chinese Quince is both ornamental and useful, adding a touch of beauty with its blossoms while providing a valuable food source. One distinctive feature sets it apart: the fruit, which has a unique texture and flavor, making it a prized ingredient in jams, jellies, and other culinary applications.
Quick answers
What is Chinese Quince?
Chinese Quince, scientifically known as Pseudocydonia sinensis, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the central and southern regions of China. It thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can range from light (sandy) to heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chinese Quince thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-8 and grows to a height of 6 meters, making it suitable as both a shrub and a small tree. For best results, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining. Propagation can be done through seeds or grafting. This versatile plant is native to China's central and southern regions and is known for its edible fruit.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-8
Habit
Shrub, Tree
Mature size
6.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Chinese Quince for the first time
8steps
Start with a Chinese Quince as your first tree planting project for easy care and rewarding fruit.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Chinese Quince sapling, garden gloves, a spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring before new growth starts or in late fall after leaves have dropped.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; prepare a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings into your prepared hole, ensuring roots are spread out and the graft union is above ground level.
- 5
First two weeks
Water thoroughly after planting; keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, prune annually to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune during late winter before new growth starts; harvest fruit when it is firm and fragrant, usually in autumn.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting to prune, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Chinese Quince is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often used to make jams, jellies, and preserves due to its high pectin content. The fruit can also be dried for later use. Skip processing it into tea as this is not a common method.
Other uses:FragranceLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 3 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native· 3 introduced
Asia3 regions
native (1)China
introduced (2)JapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
introduced:California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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