Chinese quince (Pseudocydonia sinensis)

Also known as: Chinese Quince, Pseudocydonia

The Chinese quince is a semi-evergreen tree known for its early-blooming leaves and distinctive flaking bark, which displays a mosaic of gray, green, orange, and brown colors. Native to southern and eastern China, this tree features fragrant, soft pink flowers. Its fruit is commonly used to make jam.

Attributes of Chinese quince

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree

Plant Height

10 m to 18 m

Spread

6 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 4 cm

Flower Color

Pink White

Images of Chinese quince

Quickly Identify Chinese quince

Exfoliating bark in shades of grays, greens, oranges, and browns.

Fragrant pink flowers with white bases, 5-7 inches (12-18 cm) wide.

Elongated fruit, 4-6 inches (10-15 cm), with citron yellow smooth skin.

Seasonal color-changing leaves, 2.5-4.5 inches (6.4-11.4 cm) long, yellow to red.

Upright, dense stems with smooth texture, 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) thick, grayish-brown.

Scientific Classification of Chinese quince

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

Family

Rose

Genus

Pseudocydonia

Species

Chinese quince

Planting and Growing of Chinese quince

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Chinese quince?

For Pseudocydonia sinensis, water the soil with approximately 500ml per session, ensuring that the soil is evenly saturated. It's crucial to follow the 'soak and dry' method, allowing the water to drain completely, ensuring the roots are moist but not sitting in water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Chinese quince? ›

What should I do if my Chinese quince is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Chinese quince? ›

How to save an overwatered Chinese quince? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Chinese quince?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-8 hours per day

An ideal condition involves full to partial sun exposure, enhancing fruit yield and overall plant vigor. Sufficient sunlight drives robust photosynthesis, pivotal for energy conversion and growth.

What is the perfect amount of sunlight for Pseudocydonia sinensis? ›

What solutions help achieve the required sunlight levels? ›

What effects result from achieving this optimal sunlight? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Chinese quince?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Pseudocydonia sinensis thrives best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. This range allows for optimal metabolic processes, which include photosynthesis and respiration. Outside this range, these processes can slow down, affecting growth and overall health. This temperature range typically mimics the conditions found in its native habitat, ensuring the plant remains stress-free and vigorous.

What Soil is Best for Chinese quince?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Pseudocydonia sinensis thrives in well-draining soil, as this prevents water from pooling around the roots, which could lead to root rot. A soil that allows excess water to escape ensures the roots have access to oxygen, promoting healthy growth. The plant benefits from soil that is rich in organic matter, as it provides essential nutrients for growth. Organic matter also enhances soil structure, promoting better air circulation and moisture retention, which is vital for robust plant development. A soil that retains moderate moisture without becoming waterlogged is ideal, as it prevents drought stress. This balance helps maintain the plant's vigor and prevents wilting during hotter periods while ensuring the roots are not constantly wet.

How to Fertilize Chinese quince?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Pseudocydonia sinensis, it is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. Apply approximately 100-150 grams of this fertilizer per year, depending on the plant's size and soil quality. Split the application across the growing season for best results.

How to Prune Chinese quince?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Begin by cutting away any dead or diseased branches. This helps to prevent the spread of disease and encourages the healthy growth of new shoots. Make cuts close to the main stem to avoid leaving stubs. Identify branches that cross over or are growing too close together. Prune these to improve air but ensure not to remove more than one-third of the total branches in a single pruning session. Trim the outer growth of the tree to maintain its shape and size. This encourages the plant to develop a strong and attractive structure. Focus on keeping the central area open to light.

How to Propagate Chinese quince plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early summer

Harvest seeds from ripe fruit in late autumn. Clean and dry them before storing in a cool, dry place until spring sowing.

Select healthy, semi-hardwood cuttings in early summer. Cut them about 10-15 cm long, making sure each cutting has several nodes.

In spring, choose a healthy scion and rootstock. Make a clean cut and secure them together with grafting tape, ensuring the cambium layers connect.

How to Repot Chinese quince plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Pseudocydonia sinensis, or the Chinese Quince, should be repotted when you notice roots poking through the drainage holes or circling densely inside the pot. This is an indication that the plant has outgrown its current pot. Spring and autumn, with their moderate temperatures, are perfect for repotting, allowing the plant to adjust without the stress of extreme weather.

Select a pot that is 2-3 inches larger in diameter than the current one. This gives the roots enough space to expand, promoting healthy growth. Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. A pot too large may retain excess moisture, so a moderate increase is ideal.

Opt for a well-draining acidic soil, mimicking the plant's natural habitat. Mix peat moss, perlite, and a bit of sand to create the ideal medium. This blend ensures that water drains efficiently while retaining essential moisture, providing your Chinese Quince with the needed nutrients and aeration.

Toxicity of Chinese quince

Is Chinese quince toxic to humans?

The Chinese quince has a mild toxicity level for humans, primarily associated with the ingestion of its seeds. These seeds harbor hydrogen cyanide, a highly toxic compound that can result in poisoning. Upon consumption, the body processes these seeds and releases hydrogen cyanide, which hampers cellular oxygen utilization, leading to various symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, difficulty breathing, and potentially even unconsciousness. The intensity of these symptoms is contingent upon the amount of seeds that have been consumed. It is imperative that individuals, particularly children who may be attracted to the seeds out of curiosity, refrain from consuming them to avert accidental poisoning.

Is Chinese quince toxic to cat?

Chinese quince presents a minor toxic risk to cats that might accidentally consume the plant. The seeds are the main harmful element, as they contain hydrogen cyanide, a substance that can be dangerous. Contact with this plant could result in signs of discomfort or various health issues. If a cat ingests any part of the Chinese quince, particularly the seeds, it is essential to obtain immediate care from a veterinary clinic to reduce potential health hazards.

Is Chinese quince toxic to dog?

The chinese quince plant species is recognized for having mild toxicity towards dogs. If dogs consume any parts of this plant, especially the seeds, they may be poisoned due to the toxic compounds present. Ingesting the seeds of chinese quince can cause symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal distress to more severe reactions, contingent on the quantity consumed. The seeds contain hydrogen cyanide, which is responsible for these negative health effects. It is vital for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets and to prevent them from consuming any part of chinese quince. Should a dog ingest this plant, prompt veterinary intervention is critical to ensure appropriate care and treatment.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.