Quince

The quince is a beautiful old fruit tree, loved for centuries. In spring, usually around May in the UK, its pink-white blossoms open, filling gardens and orchards with gentle colour and promise.

Quince blossoms are slightly later than apple or pear flowers, which helps protect them from spring frosts. The tree looks wonderful in bloom, and bees adore visiting the soft, fragrant petals.

The fruits start forming in summer, growing slowly and changing colour. By early autumn, around October, quinces become large, golden-yellow, and heavy, ready to be picked from the branches.

Unlike apples and pears, quinces are usually too hard and sour to eat raw. They contain high levels of pectin so are great used in jams and jellies, or cooked into stews, releasing a sweet, floral aroma and rosy colour.