Japanese Flowering Quince is a small spiny tree, in the rose family, from mountain woodland in Japan and China. If left to grow naturally, it reaches 3 feet tall. Chaenomeles Japonica are much beloved for bonsai because of their tiny, lovely flowers, and in spite of their prickly thorns. Flower colors can be white, pink, red, orange-red and orange. They are produces as early as January, and may continue to flower for a long time following the appearance of leaves. The leaves are 3-5 cm long. There is no fall foliage color. Apple-like edible fruits appear in Autumn, though these are normally removed to conserve energy for growth. The bark is dark gray. Hardiness zones 5-8 (-26øC/-15øF,-10øC/15øF) in Winter. Low maintenance plant. Almost unkillable and grows in almost any soil or position. Flowering Quince tolerates a wide climatic range including drought conditions and cold to at least -10øC. The plants are best grown with regular water, particularly during a hot dry Summer. Reduce watering in Winter, but never allow the soil to become fully dry. Needs good drainage. Prefers full sun, although partial shade in midsummer is desirable in very hot areas.