Chaenomeles spp.)
Don't confuse these old-fashioned shrubs with true quince. (Cydonia oblonga) Although they are distant cousins of the regular quince trees, they do NOT cross-pollinate with them. If, like many gardeners, you have one flowering quince planted for it's ornamental appeal. You will likely never notice anything remotely edible, but add a second variety and both begin bearing greenish-yellow oblong fruit. Although rock-hard and sour, they have a pleasant citrus aroma and can be processed just like regular quince for syrups, sauces and jellies or as a lemon substitute. With high Vitamin C and anti-oxidant content, the list of alleged health benefits is lengthy. Flowering Quince are also wonderful bee plants with their profuse, prolonged, early spring bloom.