Plant Profile: Chaenomeles lagenaria 'Double Take™ Peach'

The reference to flowering quinces (Chaenomeles spp.) conjures up vivid images and nostalgic memories of classic, spring-blooming heirloom plants. Are they old-fashioned? Absolutely. These plants have been cultivated for more than 400 years, yet their appreciation stretches back thousands of years. As a member of the rose family (Rosaceae), flowering quinces are striking harbingers of spring, blooming alongside magnolias, flowering cherries, and forsythias. This genus is relatively small, comprising just three species: Japanese flowering quince (Chaenomeles japonica), common flowering quince (Chaenomeles speciosa), and Cathay flowering quince (Chaenomeles cathayensis).

The cultivar Chaenomeles speciosa 'Double Take Peach’ is a medium-sized, upright to rounded shrub with multiple stems, reaching about 4 feet in height at maturity. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade, making it an excellent choice for spring accents. This versatile plant can serve as a specimen, be grouped in shrub borders, function as an informal hedge, or be planted on slopes and in cottage gardens.

In late winter to early spring, it produces large, light orange, double flowers. This hybrid is fruitless—having traded pistils for additional petals—eliminating messy clean-up. Additionally, it is thornless, making it safe for children and pets. Branches with unopened flower buds can be pruned and forced to bloom indoors, providing vibrant color. Notably, Double Take quinces may rebloom in the fall, offering a delightful surprise of color later in the season.

Pruning should be done in the spring after flowering to remove any dead or broken branches and to enhance the plant's shape. This practice encourages the growth of flowering spurs, which will lead to improved blooms the following year. It’s also important to promptly remove any root suckers to prevent unwanted spreading.

These plants are easy to grow in average, medium moisture, well-drained soil, thriving in full sun to partial shade, with the best flowering occurring in full sun. They can tolerate various soil types, including heavy clay, but prefer well-drained loams. Flower buds are vulnerable to damage from early spring frosts, so a sheltered location is ideal. Established plants can endure dry conditions and are well-suited for erosion-prone areas like slopes. In warmer climates, providing some afternoon shade can help prolong the life of the flowers. Space the plants 5 to 6 feet apart, and they are resistant to deer.

In terms of pests and diseases, flowering quinces may be prone to fungal leaf spot during wet years, which can lead to leaf defoliation. Fireblight and scab may pose challenges in certain regions, while aphids can significantly damage new growth. Other pests include scale and mites. Additionally, chlorosis, or yellowing of the leaves, can occur in soils with high pH (alkaline) levels.