Chaenomeles, cathayensis

Chinese Flowering Quince. This is an unusual, ornamental deciduous shrub that bears masses of pinkish-peach flowers in spring, together or just before the purple-tinted leaves appear. Large, edible fruits are produced from September onwards. Later on in the year, the leaves turn green. Sun or part shade, well-drained but moist soil. Very hardy

Use: The fruits are hard when raw, becoming deliciously fragrant when cooked, and are excellent for jellies or jams.

Priced for: a 5 litre pot