Chaenomeles japonica Seeds | Japanese Quince
LATIN NAME: Chaenomeles japonica
COMMON NAME: Japanese Quince, Flowering Quince
Plant Profile
Japanese Quince (Chaenomeles japonica) is a deciduous shrub in the rose family (Rosaceae), native to warm regions of Japan and China, while it has been cultivated in gardens for a very long time. At maturity it stands about Two metres. Gardeners value it precisely for this blend of qualities.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the rose family, Chaenomeles japonica is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. The Japanese quince has a real and distinguished place in research. Continuing work by breeders and collectors keeps good seed of this species moving through the trade.
Uses & Benefits
Japanese Quince works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. The Japanese quince is a spiny, deciduous shrub of garden and wall, bearing bright, cup-shaped, red or orange flowers in early spring. Its early flowers feed bees and emerging insects, and its spiny, dense growth gives a fine shelter and a security hedge to small creatures, while its tough habit makes it a reliable shrub for difficult spots. To raise the Japanese quince, sow seeds in pots of moist, open compost in a cool, bright place, keep them gently watered, and grow little shrubs on in the light. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
Flowering quince fruit, Mu Gua in Chinese medicine, is a classical herb for relaxing stiff muscles and aiding digestion, and the hard, fragrant fruits make excellent jellies rich in pectin and vitamin C.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Japanese Quince under ordinary good conditions. Surface-sow onto a light, well-drained compost, dust over a thin covering, and keep evenly moist and sunny until the seedlings show. A spell of cool, moist conditions ahead of sowing brings the seed along nicely and supports even germination. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
It is a solid representative of the Chaenomeles group, true to type from seed. Give the seed freshness and steady moisture, and nature handles the rest.
Related Reading
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