Chaenomeles x superba ‘Knap Hill Scarlet’ (Flowering Quince)

Reliable and very showy, Chaenomeles x superba ‘Knap Hill Scarlet’ (Flowering Quince) is a small, spreading deciduous shrub with abundant clusters of bright orange-scarlet flowers, up to 1.5 in. across (4 cm). Borne on thorny, tangled branches, they bloom in profusion for a few weeks in early spring, just as the glossy green foliage emerges, creating a brilliant floral display when there is little to be excited about in the garden. The flowers give way to small, fragrant, greenish-yellow fruits, 2 in. across (5 cm), which ripen in early fall. Edible, they are considered too bitter to be eaten directly from the shrub, but they may be used for preserves and jellies.

• Grows up to 4-5 ft. tall (120-150 cm) and 5-8 ft. wide (150-240 cm).
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils. Best flower production occurs in full sun. Adapts to a wide range of soil conditions, including dry soils and clay soils, provided there is good drainage. Drought tolerant once established.
• Easy to care for and nearly indestructible, Flowering Quince is a perfect choice for mixed shrub borders or low-flowering hedges. The spreading form and spiny branches make this plant an excellent choice for screening or as a security barrier. Great as a specimen plant and for foundation plantings. Flowering Quince may also be trained against a wall.
• Deer and rabbit-resistant
• Plants bloom on old growth. Prune to shape as required after flowering to encourage the growth of flowering spurs. Note that such pruning will reduce fruit production. Remove root suckers to control possible spread.
• Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
• Branches can be cut from your Flowering Quince in late winter and forced to bloom indoors.