Quince (Cydonia oblonga)

Also known as: Quince

The quince tree (Cydonia oblonga) is a deciduous tree that features attractive pale pink to white blossoms in late spring, drawing butterflies. Its bright yellow fruits ripen in the fall and can be enjoyed fresh or used in making jellies and preserves. Historically, quince fruits have been linked to the Greek goddess Aphrodite.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Quince

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

5 m to 8 m

Spread

4 m to 6 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

5 cm

Flower Color

Pink White Red

Images of Quince

Quickly Identify Quince

Quince can be identified by its large, aromatic, golden-yellow fruit, which is pear-shaped or apple-shaped. The leaves are dark green, simple, and alternately arranged, with a smooth texture. The flowers are pink to white, similar in appearance to those of apples and pears.

Scientific Classification of Quince

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Rose

Genus

Quince

Species

Quince

Planting and Growing of Quince

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

59-77℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Quince?

For Cydonia oblonga, it is essential to water the plant adequately but conservatively. Each session should see approximately 500 ml of water being delivered, which helps maintain adequate soil moisture. Avoid waterlogging the roots by ensuring proper drainage and only watering until the topsoil is thoroughly moist but not soggy.

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Quince?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Cydonia oblonga ideally needs full sun to partial sun exposure, highlighting its preference for bright, sunny conditions that foster robust growth and fruit yield.

What is the optimal light exposure for Cydonia oblonga? ›

How can I achieve the ideal lighting conditions for this plant? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Quince?

Ideal Temperature: 59 ~ 77℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Cydonia oblonga is between 59°F to 77°F. This range provides a balance between warmth and coolness, necessary for optimal photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, ensuring robust growth and fruit production.

What Soil is Best for Quince?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Cydonia oblonga thrives in soil that offers excellent drainage, preventing waterlogged roots. Well-drained soils improve root aeration, promoting healthier growth and reducing the risk of root rot. Providing a fertile soil rich in organic matter enhances nutrient availability for Cydonia oblonga. This supports robust growth, leading to a more vigorous plant with improved fruit production. Soils that maintain moderate moisture levels sustain Cydonia oblonga well. Consistent hydration without excess helps in consistent growth and bloom cycles, ensuring a bountiful yield. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Quince?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Cydonia oblonga requires a balanced amount of nutrients, so it's important to use a fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. For liquid fertilizer, apply approximately half a gallon per tree every other week during the growing season. Use a well-distributed application to avoid nutrient burn. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Quince?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by identifying and removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Look for branches that cross or rub against each other as they can cause wounds and invite disease. Cydonia oblonga benefits from thinning cuts to increase air circulation and sunlight penetration. Trim back vigorous growth to maintain an open center, promoting healthy fruit development. Always make clean cuts at a slight angle just above a bud facing outward from the plant. This encourages the new growth to extend outward, keeping the interior of the plant open and airy. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Quince plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring, Early autumn

Gather ripe seeds from the fruit and clean them to remove any pulp. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat, which will help enhance germination. Ensure that only viable seeds, which sink to the bottom, are planted.

Select healthy branches and cut sections that are about 6 to 8 inches long. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of each cutting. Dip the cut end of each cutting in rooting hormone to stimulate root development.

Prepare a rootstock and a scion from healthy plants. Ensure both parts have the same diameter at the cut site. Use a knife to make a clean diagonal cut on both the rootstock and scion, then join them and secure with grafting tape to facilitate bonding and growth.

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How to Repot Quince plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2 to 3 years

The signs that a Cydonia oblonga, or quince, needs repotting include roots emerging from drainage holes, a cramped growing environment, and slow growth. Typically, spring or autumn is ideal for repotting, ensuring weather conditions are mild.

Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with plenty of drainage holes. A slightly larger pot gives the roots more room to grow while ensuring excess water drains adequately, preventing root rot.

Opt for well-drained loamy soil enriched with organic matter. Such soil offers nutrients while facilitating adequate drainage, which prevents waterlogging, ensuring your quince's roots remain healthy and thrive.

Toxicity of Quince

Is Quince toxic to humans?

The seeds of the quince fruit contain compounds that can lead to the production of hydrogen cyanide. When these seeds begin to dissolve in the stomach, their precursors interact with stomach acid, resulting in the generation of hydrogen cyanide gas. This gas can be absorbed through the mucous membranes, leading to cellular damage. Consumption of a significant quantity of quinces—particularly since their seeds are quite small and easy to consume—can result in cyanide poisoning. Symptoms typically manifest within an hour and may include staggering, difficulty in breathing, headaches, weakness, anxiety, and ultimately convulsions, loss of consciousness, and potentially death. It is advisable to keep children and individuals with cognitive impairments away from this tree.

Is Quince toxic to cat?

Quince poses a slight toxicity concern for cats, particularly when ingested in substantial amounts. The harmful components are found within the plant's seeds. Should a cat consume a considerable quantity of these seeds, it may show signs of physical discomfort or illness, necessitating immediate medical attention. It is crucial to observe your cat carefully and pursue professional veterinary care without delay if any signs of distress manifest following quince exposure.

Is Quince toxic to dog?

The quince plant species is recognized for its relatively low toxicity to dogs. When dogs consume large quantities of this plant, they can be poisoned. The seeds of the quince are particularly toxic, containing compounds that can be detrimental to dogs. Ingesting these seeds may lead to gastrointestinal distress in dogs, or more serious health issues depending on how many seeds are consumed. Dog owners should be vigilant in supervising their pets and restricting their access to quince seeds. If a dog does ingest these seeds and shows signs of poisoning, it is essential to seek immediate veterinary care to safeguard their health.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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