Quince

Cydonia oblonga, known as Quince, produces pretty white flowers in the spring that give way to large, heavy, edible fruits by September. This makes Cydonia oblonga VAT exempt!

Quince trees were a favourite of the Greeks and Romans. Bees and butterflies are attracted to their nectar.

The flowers are followed by rounded, apple-shaped fruits that ripen from summer green to green-gold shade in October and November.

Thriving on most free-draining and nutritious soils, the large summer leaves turn an eye-catching yellow to gold in the autumn before leaf fall. As a native of Southwest Asia, it is hardy enough for the UK but benefits from a south-facing, more sheltered aspect. Plant in full sun in a sheltered position to ensure the best ripening of the fruit.

Quince trees can be pruned to maintain a smaller size if desired. Like apple trees, they should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Sensitive to salt, they will require protection from sea winds in coastal regions. Cydonia oblonga is a natural fit in a country orchard or garden.

It is related to the better-known quince genus Chaenomeles.

Mature Height: 3-7m

Common names

Quince

Height of tree

3-7m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Rounded

Blossom Colour

White

Foliage Colour

Yellow

Fruit and Nut

Quince

Information Flags

Good for bees

Looks good in

Summer, Spring

Location

Garden

Genus

Cydonia