Toyo-Nichiki Quince Chaenomeles speciosa 'Toyo-Nishiki'

'Toyo-Nishiki' is a deciduous suckering shrub with a rounded spreading form that grows up to 8 feet high and wide. Remove suckers immediately if spreading is not desired. 'Toyo-Nishiki' flowers are a rare combination of red, white and pink flowers, sometimes with all three colors on the same flower.  Cut branches with swollen flower buds may be forced indoors, making a welcomed winter flower arrangement.

Quinces are easy to grow in acidic, average, well-drained garden soils. The preference is for well-drained loams but it is adaptable to a wide range of soil types. Best flowering occurs in full sun but it tolerates some shade. They can tolerate some drought once established.

Plants bloom on old growth so prune sparingly after flowering to remove diseased or broken branches and lightly shape. Over pruning will reduce fruit production for the current year. Be careful of the thorns.

The fruits are bitter to eat fresh but are tasty as a jam. They can be messy to clean up if allowed to fall.

PROBLEMS: Fireblight and scab can be problems in some areas. Aphids can cause significant damage to new growth. Lesser pests include scale and mites. Chlorosis (yellowing of foliage) will occur in high pH soils.