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Japanese Quince (Chaenomeles speciosa)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Japanese Quince

Beginner

Chaenomeles speciosa

Flowering bonsai that covers branches with red, white, or pink blooms in early spring. Develops thick trunks and aged look easily. Fruits add secondary interest.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
≥-20℃
Lifespan
100+ years
Size
10-40cm (bonsai size)

Overview

Chaenomeles is a genus of four species of deciduous spiny shrubs, usually 1–3 m tall, in the family Rosaceae. They are native to Eastern Asia. These plants are related to the quince and the Chinese quince, differing in the serrated leaves that lack fuzz, and in the flowers, borne in clusters, having deciduous sepals and styles that are connate at the base.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Japanese Quince

The Japanese Quince lives 100+ years.

Size of the Japanese Quince

The Japanese Quince grows to 10-40cm (bonsai size).

Temperature & humidity for the Japanese Quince

The Japanese Quince tolerates temperatures of ≥-20℃.

Basic Info

Origin

China (introduced to Japan before the Heian period)

Lifespan

100+ years

Size

10-40cm (bonsai size)

Temperature

≥-20℃

Growing Tips

Placement

Outdoor full sun. Cold hardy

Watering

Loves water. Do not let dry in growing season

Styling

Prune after bloom. Cut suckers to improve flower buds

Notes

Thorns — be careful. Prone to aphids

Beginner-friendlyFloweringEarly springFruits too

Japanese Quince FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Japanese Quince?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QWhat temperatures can Japanese Quince tolerate?
A

Japanese Quince tolerates temperatures of ≥-20℃. This is the tolerated range, not the ideal growing temperature. Keep conditions well inside it and avoid sudden temperature changes.

QWhat is the lifespan of Japanese Quince?
A

The average lifespan of Japanese Quince is 100+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Japanese Quince get?
A

The mature size of Japanese Quince is 10-40cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Japanese Quince?
A

The price of Japanese Quince varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: October 2, 2026

Growing Specifications

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Chaenomeles speciosa (Sweet) Nakai

Synonyms: Chaenomeles eburnea (Carrière) Nakai, Chaenomeles cardinalis (Carrière) Nakai, Chaenomeles citripomma Carrière, Cydonia citripomma (Carrière) Mottet, Pyrus speciosa (Sweet) M.F.Fay & Christenh., Cydonia umbato M.Roem.

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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