Cydonia oblonga (Quince)

Native from the Caucasus to Central Asia, it is a deciduous tree with broad, smooth-edged leaves that are densely hairy underneath. Solitary white or pale pink flowers appear with the spring foliage and have five rounded petals. Its aromatic fruits ripen yellow and may be pear-shaped or rounded. Most cultivars have firm, astringent flesh that is usually cooked for jellies, preserves, desserts or the fruit paste called membrillo. The fruit is rich in pectin and can turn red during cooking. The species is also used as a dwarfing rootstock for pears. Photographed in Peru.