Bright Cluster. Japanese Quince, Chaenomeles japonica, Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Even on a sullen day these orange clusters of flowers brighten the garden. This Chaenomeles japonica was described by Carl Peter Thunberg - yes, he of Japanese fame - in the 1780s as Pyrus japonicus. But later it was renamed to eliminate confusion with other apples and pears. It was first 'imported' to Europe at the very end of the eighteenth century and now graces many gardens all over the world for its brightness. I've not tasted this Quince's fruits 'raw' but the jam made from them is very good.
Bright Cluster. Japanese Quince, Chaenomeles japonica, Hortus Botanicus, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Even on a sullen day these orange clusters of flowers brighten the garden. This Chaenomeles japonica was described by Carl Peter Thunberg - yes, he of Japanese fame - in the 1780s as Pyrus japonicus. But later it was renamed to eliminate confusion with other apples and pears. It was first 'imported' to Europe at the very end of the eighteenth century and now graces many gardens all over the world for its brightness. I've not tasted this Quince's fruits 'raw' but the jam made from them is very good.