This is always a favorite as it is one of the first shrubs to bloom in the spring. The Red Flowering Quince produces large clusters of double fiery scarlet-red flowers resembling rose buds generally in April-May (earlier for southern states). This makes a really nice shrub for a border or espaliered to a wall. They have attractive shiny green foliage with reddish tinge. The Red Flowering Quince prefers sun, but will grow in partial shade. Grows to 3-4 feet in height with an equal spread.
The fruit that this plant bears is apple like, 2-4 inches in diameter, edible and appeals to both man and wildlife. You can use this fruit to make jelly. The stems are thorny so this plant is a good choice to use to use as a hedge to discourage traffic.