Pseudocydonia

Description

Pseudocydonia is a genus of flowering plants in the rose family Rosaceae. It consists of only one species, Pseudocydonia sinensis, which is also known as Chinese quince or Chinese bronze apple. This plant is native to China and has been cultivated for its edible fruit and ornamental value.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Pseudocydonia sinensis is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10-15 meters tall. It has a rounded crown with a spreading habit and a trunk diameter of up to 60 cm. The bark is brownish-grey and rough with deep furrows. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate with serrated margins. They are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and paler on the lower surface. The flowers are pink or white, fragrant, and borne in clusters. The fruit is a large, pear-shaped, yellowish-green or brownish-yellow pome with a diameter of 8-10 cm. It has a hard, woody core and a sweet, aromatic, and slightly acidic flesh that is eaten raw, cooked, or used for making jams, jellies, and liqueurs.

Care Guide

Pseudocydonia sinensis is a hardy and adaptable plant that can grow in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips for its care:

• Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter. Avoid overwatering or waterlogging the soil.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer or compost. Avoid excessive fertilization or high-nitrogen fertilizers.
• Soil: Plant the tree in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-6.5. Avoid heavy clay or sandy soil.
• Sunlight: Provide the plant with full sun to partial shade exposure. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers and fruits.
• Hardiness Zones: Pseudocydonia sinensis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9. It can tolerate cold temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Pseudocydonia sinensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be affected by some common problems such as:

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects may infest the leaves and cause curling, yellowing, or stunted growth. Control them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Cedar rust: This fungal disease may cause yellow spots, blisters, or rust-colored spores on the leaves, fruit, or twigs. Remove infected parts and use fungicides if necessary.
• Fire blight: This bacterial disease may cause wilting, blackening, or cankers on the branches or leaves. Prune the infected parts and use antibiotics if necessary.
• Scale insects: These small, flat insects may attach to the bark and suck the sap, causing yellowing, wilting, or death. Control them with horticultural oil or insecticides.

Habitat

Pseudocydonia sinensis is native to central and eastern China, where it grows in forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. It prefers moist and fertile soil with good drainage and moderate sunlight. It is also cultivated as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and streetscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Pseudocydonia sinensis a good shade tree?
A: Yes, it can provide some shade but may not be as dense as other trees.

Q: How long does it take for Pseudocydonia sinensis to bear fruit?
A: It may take 3-5 years for the tree to produce its first fruit, and up to 10 years to reach its full fruiting potential.

Q: Can Pseudocydonia sinensis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization, and may not grow as large or produce as much fruit as in the ground.

Q: Is Pseudocydonia sinensis a good choice for a windbreak?
A: Yes, it has a strong and flexible wood that can withstand windy conditions, and its dense foliage can provide some protection.

Related Plants

• Chaenomeles japonica (Japanese quince)
• Cydonia oblonga (common quince)
• Malus (apple)
• Pyrus (pear)

References

• “Pseudocydonia sinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 7 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=b852>
• “Chinese quince.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 7 August 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5610/pseudocydonia-sinensis/details>
• “Pseudocydonia sinensis.” Plant Finder. Accessed 7 August 2021. <https://www.plantdelights.com/products/pseudocydonia-sinensis>