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Japanese Quince
Japanese Quince botanical plate
Field guide plate · click to zoom

Japanese Quince

Chaenomeles japonica
In the United States: Introduced · also called Flowering Quince, Maule's Quince

Japanese quince is a dense, thorny deciduous shrub that produces vibrant red-orange flowers early in spring, offering nectar-rich blooms that draw honeybees seeking both nectar and pollen during a time of limited forage. Peak bloom lasts 2-3 weeks, supporting colony buildup in temperate climates. Prune after flowering to encourage dense growth, and note its thorns may deter some browsing but require care in placement.

Nectarhigh
Pollenmedium
Bloom (US) March–April
TypePerennial
Sunpartial
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