ShrubsChaenomeles speciosa
Japanese Quince
Japanese Quince is among the earliest-flowering shrubs in spring. From February, fiery red, pink, or white flowers can appear on still-bare branches. Later, small, hard quince fruits follow that are edible when cooked. The thorny branches also make the plant suitable as an informal hedge.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 100–200 cm
- Spread
- 100–250 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 5–8
- Family
- Rosaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- red, pink, white
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in sun or partial shade in ordinary garden soil. Japanese Quince is very tolerant and thrives in almost any soil. Water regularly in the first year; after that, the plant is self-sufficient. Can also be trained as an espalier against a wall for spectacular flowering.
Pruning tips
Prune right after flowering by cutting back overlong shoots. For espalier-trained plants, trim side shoots to two or three buds. Remove dead wood and crossing branches. Wear gloves because of the thorns.
Good companions
ShrubsForsythia × intermedia
Border Forsythia
Forsythia is one of the first shrubs to bloom in spring with an explosion of bright yellow flowers along bare branches. From March to April, this robust shrub turns the garden golden before the leaves appear. Forsythia grows quickly, is fully hardy, and makes a stunning specimen or hedge plant.
ShrubsHamamelis mollis
Chinese Witch Hazel
Chinese Witch Hazel is a remarkable shrub that blooms in the depths of winter with fragrant, spider-like yellow flowers on bare branches. The delicate blooms withstand frost and bring welcome colour to the darkest months. In autumn, the large leaves turn spectacular yellow and orange.
ShrubsMahonia aquifolium
Oregon Grape
Oregon Grape is an evergreen shrub with glossy, spiny foliage that can turn bronze-purple in winter. In March and April, dense clusters of fragrant, bright yellow flowers appear, attracting early bees. Later, blue-black berries follow that birds adore. A rewarding, shade-tolerant plant.