Quince trees

Quince trees have a rounded habit and reach an average size of 4 to 5 metres (13 to 16 feet) in height. They are trouble-free and very easy to grow in any type of soil. Their highly fertile, delicately scented, white-pink flowers bloom in May. Their fruit, called quinces, are shaped like a large rounded pear, with a dark yellow skin covered in a fine downy film. They can be harvested when they releases a subtle fragrance and their down rubs off readily. The flesh of quinces is hard and sour, and is consumed cooked in the form of compotes, jellies, jams, and fruit pastes. Like apples, they quickly become oxidised once pealed.