Chaenomeles speciosa (Flowering Quince)

Native to China, Tibet, and Myanmar, the Flowering Quince is a broad-rounded, deciduous shrub. The species displays a variety of flower colors, predominantly red, though white and pink blooms are also common. This feature, along with its ornamental usage has led to its cultivation in gardens across different regions. The shrub’s fruit, although bitter when consumed fresh is found palatable in preserves and jellies. A particular cultivar of the species, Chaenomeles speciosa ‘Moerloosei’ has been recognized with the Award of Garden Merit by the Royal Horticultural Society. Photographed in Bogotá, Colombia.