Chaenomeles x superba 'CAMEO' Japanese quince
size/type
medium-sized shrub,medium-sized shrub
usual height
0,8-1,3m
usual width
1-1,5m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
April-May
location
full to partial sun
soil type
acidic (peaty) to neutral
soil moisture requirements
evenly moist (dislikes drought)
USDA zone (lowest)
5 (down to -29°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Japanese quince is one of the most popular shrubs for bonsai makers. It is valued for its profuse flowering and irregular growth ideal for never-ending clipping and shaping. In Japan it is cultivated in similar quantity to flowering cherries and magnolias. It is a deciduous shrub with glossy, dark green leaves, and branches with 2-3 cm thorns, however this variety is thornless.
Description of the plant:
Cameo is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Japanese quince hybrids (a cross between ch.japonica and ch.speciosa). It produces large, 3.5-4.5 cm across, soft salmon pink or almost orange, semi-double flowers. They commonly open in the first decade of April, however, if the winter is warm you can see numerous buds opening already in mid to late March. The shrub flowers for 6-8 weeks, and what is most interesting – it keeps small growing only about a meter tall and wide. Flowers are followed by edible, pear-shaped pomes, 4-5 cm in diameter. Cameo is a thornless variety.Japanese quince will grow in almost any soil apart from too alkaline. For best results grow it in moderately fertile and reasonably drained garden soil, it can take clay and occasional drought when established but evenly moist soil will secure richer growth and better appearance. Pruning is crucial unless you like its natural unkempt habit. Prune the branches hard immediately after by 70-80% and remove leggy twigs from inside the shrub to achieve an airier habit with visible framework. Hardy to about -29°C (USDA zone 5) and suitable for outdoor pots.
Last update 27-10-2018
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