Flowering quince Chaenomeles speciosa 'Moerloosei'
ABOUT
The Chaenomeles speciosa 'Moerloosei', also known as the flowering quince, presents a striking display of ornamental beauty. This plant boasts a profusion of soft pink flowers that create a blossoming spectacle before the emergence of its foliage. The flowers cluster together and can appear almost fluffy due to their abundant petals, which surround the bright yellow centers. Once the flowering period is over, glossy green leaves take over, providing a lush backdrop for the rest of the growing season. The flowering quince also produces small, fragrant fruits that mature in the fall, turning into an attractive yellowish color. These fruits are notable for their pleasing aroma and are often used in culinary applications. The branches of this plant can be thorny, adding a defensive characteristic to its otherwise charming appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Flowering Quince, Japanese Quince, Maule's Quince.
Common names
Cydonia speciosa, Chaenomeles lagenaria 'Moerloosei'.
ToxicityTo humans
The Flowering Quince is not considered highly toxic to humans; however, the seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when digested. If ingested in large enough quantities, symptoms could include headaches, dizziness, confusion, stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe cases may lead to difficulty in breathing and shock, which could be life-threatening. It is advisable to avoid consuming the seeds, and the fruit should be properly processed before consumption to reduce any risks.
To pets
Flowering Quince may pose a risk to pets if ingested, as the seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide. Symptoms of poisoning in pets can include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. It is important to prevent pets from ingesting the seeds and monitor them if they have access to the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Spread
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Chaenomeles speciosa 'Moerloosei', commonly known as flowering quince, is highly valued for its ornamental appeal due to its attractive pink and white spring blossoms.
- Garden Variety: It provides variety in the garden with its unique growth habit and the color it offers during early spring when few other plants are in bloom.
- Wildlife Attraction: Flowering quince attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, thus supporting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
- Hardy Nature: The plant is known for its hardiness, able to tolerate poor soil conditions, drought, and some neglect once established.
- Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit and hardy root system make it suitable for controlling erosion on slopes and banks.
- Easy Propagation: Flowering quince is relatively easy to propagate from cuttings or seeds, allowing gardeners to share and spread the plant easily.
- Hedging and Screening: It can serve as a dense thorny hedge or privacy screen, providing security and seclusion for outdoor spaces.
- Longevity: Flowering quince is a long-lived shrub, providing years of enjoyment with minimal investment of time and resources.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Flowering quince may have properties that help reduce inflammation.
- Antioxidant: It contains compounds that may act as antioxidants.
- Antimicrobial: There is some evidence to suggest it might have antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens.
- Antiviral: Flowering quince is traditionally believed to have antiviral effects, particularly against the influenza virus.
- Expectorant: It has been used to help loosen phlegm and relieve cough.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Flowering Quince branches can be used for cut flower arrangements due to their vibrant blossoms and unique form, adding a splash of color and natural beauty to indoor settings.
- The thorns of Flowering Quince make it an effective barrier plant or hedge, as it can deter animals and unwelcome visitors from entering garden spaces.
- When espaliered, Flowering Quince can adorn walls and fences in a flat, two-dimensional form, showcasing its flowers in a structured, artistic manner.
- The dense branching habit of Flowering Quince provides nesting sites for various species of birds, offering them shelter and a place to raise their young.
- In the art of bonsai, Flowering Quince is valued for its gorgeous blooms and can be trained to create miniature artistic representations of full-size trees.
- The fruit of Flowering Quince, while not as popular as other fruits, can be used to make jellies, jams, and marmalades with a unique tangy flavor.
- Dried Flowering Quince fruit slices can be used as a natural potpourri to fragrance indoor areas with a subtle, refreshing aroma.
- The wood of Flowering Quince is hard and can be used for crafting small wooden items or tools, benefiting from its toughness and durability.
- Flowering Quince can be used as a rootstock for grafting certain species of pears, providing a strong and compatible base for pear tree cultivation.
- As a subject in photography and painting, the Flowering Quince's vibrant flowers serve as an inspiring muse for artists capturing the splendor of spring blooms.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Flowering Quince is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Flowering Quince is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience - Chaenomeles speciosa 'Moerloosei', commonly known as flowering quince, often blooms early in the spring while other plants remain dormant, symbolizing the ability to endure difficult conditions and to emerge with strength.
- Hope - The bright flowers of the flowering quince herald the coming of spring, representing hope and the promise of new beginnings.
- Protection - With its thorny branches, the flowering quince was traditionally planted near homes to offer protection from negative forces and intruders.
- Prosperity - In some cultures, the flowering quince is associated with wealth and abundance, as its prolific blooms suggest a generous and fruitful season.
- Love and Fertility - The fruitfulness of the plant, along with its attractive blossoms, often associates it with love, beauty, and fertility in various traditions.
WaterThe Japanese quince 'Moerloosei' requires consistent moisture, so it's important to water it deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water each time. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water twice a week to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy. Reduce watering in the winter when the plant is dormant. It is crucial to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. Always check the top few inches of soil for dryness before watering again to prevent overwatering.
LightJapanese quince 'Moerloosei' thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a spot where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily, although it can tolerate some afternoon shade during the hottest part of the day. The ideal location is one that offers morning sun, which helps dry the dew from the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
TemperatureJapanese quince 'Moerloosei' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from a winter low of about -20°F to a summer high of 90°F or more. The ideal growing temperature for this plant is between 60°F and 80°F. Ensure that the plant is protected from extreme temperature fluctuations, especially during the blooming period, to prevent damage to the flowers.
PruningPrune Japanese quince 'Moerloosei' after flowering to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. It is recommended to prune at least once a year to encourage new growth and more prolific blooms the following season. The best time for a major pruning is immediately after the blooms have faded in late spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Japanese quince 'Moerloosei' thrives best in well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. For optimal growth, a mix comprising equal parts garden soil, peat, and perlite or coarse sand is ideal to facilitate good drainage and aeration.
RepottingJapanese quince 'Moerloosei' generally requires repotting every 2 to 3 years to replenish soil nutrients and accommodate root growth. It's best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingJapanese quince 'Moerloosei' is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. It grows well in average outdoor humidity conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny spot; water when soil feels dry.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade; protect from harsh wind.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe flowering quince 'Moerloosei' begins its life as a seed, which under right conditions germinates to produce a small seedling. The seedling grows through a juvenile phase where it develops its root system and foliage. As it matures into an adult plant, it begins to produce distinctive flowers that are usually pink-red with a hint of white, signaling its reproductive stage. After pollination and fertilization, the plant produces fruit, which are quince-like pomes that can be used to propagate new plants. Over time, the plant enters a period of senescence, where growth slows and it may produce fewer flowers and fruits. Eventually, the plant will die, completing its life cycle and potentially leaving seeds to start the process anew if conditions allow.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The Japanese flowering quince 'Moerloosei', known scientifically as Chaenomeles speciosa 'Moerloosei', is typically propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is most successful when carried out in late summer. You need to select a healthy parent plant and cut a section of stem that is neither too old nor too green, typically about 6 to 8 inches (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters) long, with several leaves attached. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring at least a couple of leaf nodes are buried where roots will form. It's important to maintain a humid environment around the cutting, which can be achieved by covering it with a plastic bag or placing it in a propagator. Consistent moisture and warmth are critical until roots develop, after which the new plant can be gradually acclimated to less protected conditions before being transplanted outside.
