Toyo-Nishiki Flowering Quince

Toyo-Nishiki is a deciduous flowering quince whose spring flowers can combine red, pink, and white, sometimes with all three colors on one flower. This rounded, spreading shrub can reach about 8 feet tall and wide, and may produce suckers as it matures. Swollen branches can also be cut for indoor winter forcing. ## Flowers and placement The [NC State Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/chaenomeles-speciosa-toyo-nishiki/common-name/toyo-nishiki-flowering-quince/) describes March–April flowers that open before the foliage, and recommends full sun for best flowering while noting that the shrub tolerates some shade. Plant it as a specimen or informal hedge, or train it along a wall or trellis. Its thorny stems and colorful early flowers suit a spot where both can be appreciated without blocking a path. ## Maintenance Flowering occurs on older growth, so prune lightly after bloom and remove only broken or diseased branches. Remove suckers promptly if you want to limit spread. Well-drained soil is preferred; NC State notes that established plants can tolerate some drought.