Flowering Quince Chaenomeles speciosa 'Nivalis'
ABOUT
Commonly known as the flowering quince, the 'Nivalis' variety presents itself as a deciduous shrub with a dense, thorny branching habit. In the spring, it bursts into a stunning display of large, cup-shaped flowers that are pure white in color, providing a striking contrast against the emerging glossy, dark green foliage. As the seasons progress, the leaves may turn to a rich, fiery hue in autumn, offering a visual treat. After the blooming period, the flowering quince produces small, fragrant, apple-like fruits that are greenish-yellow when young, maturing to a golden yellow. The fruit is aromatic and may be used in preserves and jellies. This plant is valued for its multi-season interest and is often used in ornamental gardens for its showy blossoms and attractive fruit.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae.
Synonyms
Flowering Quince, Japanese Quince, Maule's Quince, Japonica.
Common names
Chaenomeles lagenaria 'Nivalis', Cydonia lagenaria 'Nivalis', Cydonia speciosa 'Nivalis'
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as Flowering Quince is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, ingesting seeds can be potentially harmful, as they contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which release cyanide when digested. Symptoms of mild poisoning may include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Ingesting large quantities of seeds could potentially lead to more serious symptoms due to cyanide poisoning, which require immediate medical attention.
To pets
The Flowering Quince is not typically considered highly toxic to pets, but as with humans, its seeds do contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested. If a pet consumes a large number of seeds, symptoms could include vomiting, diarrhea, or more serious signs of cyanide poisoning like difficulty breathing, bright red gums, or shock. It is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting parts of this plant, especially the seeds, and consult a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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: Produces white flowers that add aesthetic appeal to landscapes and gardens.
- Wildlife Attraction: Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies which can benefit the overall health of the garden ecosystem.
- Low Maintenance: Tolerates a variety of soil types and does not require frequent care or watering once established.
- Durable: Resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Year-Round Interest: Offers seasonal interest with flowers in spring, fruits in summer and fall, and sometimes retaining leaves in mild winters.
- Soil Erosion Control: Can be used on slopes or areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil with its root system.
- Privacy Screen: When planted in groups or as a hedge, it can provide privacy and reduce noise from surroundings.
- Supporting Local Ecosystems: By providing fruits and shelter, it can support local bird species and beneficial insects.
- Cultural Significance: Regarded in some cultures as a symbol of perseverance and endurance due to its hardy nature.
- Culinary Use: The fruit can be used to make jellies or preserves, though it is not widely considered a primary food source.
Medical Properties- Anti-inflammatory: Chaenomeles speciosa 'Nivalis' has been used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidant: The plant contains compounds that may have antioxidant effects.
- Analgesic: There are historical references to the flowering quince being used for pain relief.
- Antimicrobial: Some parts of the plant are believed to have antimicrobial properties that could help in fighting certain infections.
- Hepatoprotective: There is evidence suggesting that Chaenomeles speciosa could offer some liver-protecting benefits.
- Immunomodulatory: The flowering quince may influence the immune system, although specifics of this action are not well-defined.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Flowering Quince 'Nivalis' branches can be used as a natural fencing or barrier due to their thorny nature, offering a deterrence to both animals and unauthorized human entry.
- The plant's fruit can serve as a natural source of pectin for homemade jellies and jams, particularly when combined with other fruits that are low in pectin.
- Flowering Quince can be trained into a bonsai, with 'Nivalis' offering beautiful white blooms for this miniature form of art.
- The dense, thorny branches of the Flowering Quince can be utilized as a support for climbing plants that require assistance, giving structural help to garden vines.
- Sustainable dye can be extracted from the flowers and fruit of the 'Nivalis', offering hues for textiles and crafts.
- Flowering Quince twigs and blooms can be cut and arranged in vases for natural indoor decoration, especially inviting during the early spring when little else is in bloom.
- Flowering Quince 'Nivalis' can be used as a rootstock for grafting other Chaenomeles varieties to create new and interesting hybrids.
- The dense foliage and thorny stems provide excellent habitat and protection for birds, offering them a safe space for nesting and refuge from predators.
- Erosion control can be another function of the plant; its sprawling habit and sturdy root system can help stabilize soil on slopes or banks.
- In winter gardens, the Flowering Quince can add structural interest with its intricate branching patterns, particularly after the leaves have fallen and the architecture of the plant is fully visible.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Japanese Quince is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Japanese Quince is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Renewal and New Beginnings: Chaenomeles speciosa 'Nivalis', commonly known as Flowering Quince, blooms in late winter to early spring, symbolizing the end of the cold season and the start of new growth.
- Resilience: Flowering Quince is hardy and can withstand harsh conditions, representing the ability to endure and thrive in challenging situations.
- Prosperity: The abundant blossoms of the Flowering Quince are often seen as a sign of prosperity and good fortune, making it a popular plant in celebrations.
- Love and Fertility: With its vibrant red flowers, the Flowering Quince is sometimes associated with love and romance, as well as the fertility of the earth in spring.
- Protection: In some cultures, Flowering Quince is planted near homes as it is believed to offer protection against negative influences and to bring good luck to the residents.
WaterThe flowering quince 'Nivalis' should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing water to reach the root zone. The frequency of watering should depend on the climate and the soil moisture level. Typically, during the growing season, it should be watered once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per plant, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During winter, reduce watering to every other week or less, depending on the weather conditions. It's important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
LightFlowering quince 'Nivalis' performs best in full sun conditions but can tolerate partial shade. Planting it in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight will ensure vigorous growth and optimal blooming. Avoid deep shade as it reduces flowering and can cause the plant to become leggy.
TemperatureFlowering quince 'Nivalis' is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. They can survive winter temperatures as low as -20°F and are suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9. Their ideal growing temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F. Extreme heat above 90°F can stress the plant, especially if it lacks sufficient water.
PruningPruning the flowering quince 'Nivalis' is essential to maintain its shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage flowering. The plant blooms on old wood, so prune immediately after flowers fade in late spring to shape the plant and promote the development of buds for next year. Typically, pruning once a year is sufficient, removing any crossing or wayward branches to maintain a tidy, open framework.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFlowering quince 'Nivalis' prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0-7.0. A mix of loamy garden soil, peat, perlite or coarse sand, and compost would create an ideal environment, offering good drainage and fertility to support its growth and flowering.
RepottingThe flowering quince 'Nivalis' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and encourage healthy root growth. As a slower-growing shrub, it is less likely to become pot-bound quickly, but it does benefit from potting up if it outgrows its container.
Humidity & MistingThe flowering quince 'Nivalis' is relatively tolerant of various humidity levels but thrives best in average humidity conditions, similar to the outdoor environment. While it can tolerate some dryness, avoiding extremely low humidity will help maintain its health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, moderate watering, and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in sun to part shade, well-draining soil, and shelter from winds.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleChaenomeles speciosa 'Nivalis', commonly known as Flowering Quince, begins its life cycle as a seed, which after a period of dormancy, germinates in spring when temperatures and soil conditions become favorable. The seedling then develops into a young shrub, growing actively during spring and summer by producing foliage and establishing a strong root system. As the plant matures, usually within a few years, it enters the flowering stage, producing white blooms in the early spring before the foliage fully emerges. Following pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, resembling small apples, which mature in the fall and persist into winter, providing food for wildlife and possibly giving rise to new seedlings. In winter, the Flowering Quince enters a period of dormancy, where growth ceases, and the plant conserves energy until the next growing season. The shrub may continue this annual cycle of growth, flowering, and dormancy for many years, sometimes decades, given optimal growing conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating Chaenomeles speciosa 'Nivalis', commonly known as flowering quince, is through hardwood cuttings. This process usually takes place during late fall or winter when the plant is dormant. To propagate by this method, select healthy, mature stems from the current or previous year's growth and cut them into sections about 6 to 9 inches (15 to 23 centimeters) long. Each cutting should have at least two to three buds. The lower cut should be made just below a bud, and the top cut just above a bud to maximize potential for growth. The cuttings are then planted in a mixture of sand and peat or a well-draining potting mix, with the lower third of the cutting buried. They should be kept in a sheltered, cool location until the following spring when roots have formed and they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
