Crimson and Gold Flowering Quince is a compact, deciduous shrub that delivers double duty: stunning scarlet blooms with golden stamens from March to May, followed by aromatic green fruit that ripens to yellow for preserves. This hybrid cultivar (Chaenomeles x superba) grows just 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, making it dense and manageable while remaining rugged and fast-growing. Hardy from zones 5 to 9, it thrives in full sun and becomes increasingly drought-tolerant once established, rewarding gardeners with both ornamental flowers and edible harvests.
Full Sun
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5-9
?in H x ?in W
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Moderate
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The flowers are the real showstopper, masses of deep crimson petals clustered with cheerful yellow stamens that look almost ornamental enough for cut bouquets in spring. After the blooms fade, aromatic fruit develops that shifts from green to golden yellow, ready for transformation into fragrant preserves. The naturally thorny growth and compact size make it an excellent candidate for hedging or boundary plantings, adding texture and function year-round. What truly distinguishes this variety is its density and vigor; it grows fast yet stays small enough for tight spaces where larger quinces would overwhelm.
The primary ornamental feature is the spring flower display, which produces abundant blooms ideal for cutting and bringing indoors as striking bouquets from March through May. The secondary but equally important use is the fruit harvest, which ripens to yellow and transforms into aromatic preserves and jellies. The thorny branching structure and compact habit also make it valuable as a decorative and functional hedge plant for property boundaries.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Flowers can be cut for bouquets anytime during the March to May bloom window when they are fully open. For fruit harvest, wait until the green fruits ripen to yellow, which occurs in late spring to early summer depending on your zone. The aromatic, golden fruit signals readiness and can be picked when they reach full color and have developed fragrance; they will be firm to the touch.
Cut flowering stems throughout the blooming period (March to May) to enjoy as striking indoor bouquets; this light harvesting acts as natural pruning. After flowering concludes, prune to maintain the compact 3 to 5 foot form and remove crossing or diseased branches. The arching growth habit benefits from selective heading to encourage dense branching and fuller shape. Because this variety is thorny, use pruners carefully and wear protective gloves.
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