Introduction to Quince

Quince is a rather unusual fruit that is closely related to apples and pears. Its scientific name is Cydonia oblonga, and it is the only member of its genus Cydonia. The quince tree is deciduous and rather small, while the valuable ripened fruit is yellowish gold color and somewhat similar to pears in shape and consistency. The value of the fruit as a food item dates back a long time, but the small tree is often grown for its ornamental quality as well, because of its attractive pale pink blossoms.