California Quince (Chaenomeles x californica)

Family: Rosaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Chaenomeles x californica is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1.8 m (6ft) by 1.8 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. The flowers are pollinated by Bees, Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring with cooked apples. — Fruit - very harsh and acid raw but fragrant when cooked.; Used for jams, jellies etc and as a flavouring with cooked apples.; The fruit can be apple or pear-shaped and up to 6cm long x 6cm wide.; The flesh is firm, fragrant and acidic.

Habitat & North American Range

Garden Hybrid. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)