Flowering Quince

Chaenomeles x superba Crimson and Gold

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: March to May
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Ornamental quinces bring a welcome flush of colour to the garden in spring, when their bare twigs are smothered in flowers before the glossy, dark green leaves appear. 'Crimson and Gold' has has striking, cup-shaped, bright red flowers with conspicuous yellow centres from March to May, followed by aromatic, greenish-yellow fruit. This easy-to-grow, deciduous shrub is excellent for a partly shady border with moderately fertile, well-drained soil and looks stunning trained against a wall. A popular compact variety, it's perfect for the smaller garden or where space is limited. The fruit can be eaten when cooked.
  
  

• Garden care: After flowering, prune side-shoots to five or six leaves and remove crossing stems. Once established, remove excess growth in late spring or summer and cut back all side-shoots to two or three leaves.