Cydonia oblonga (Quince)

Botanical name: Cydonia oblonga

Common name: Quince

Family: Rosaceae

Origin: Southwest Asia

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The quince is a deciduous thornless shrub or small tree, 13-20 ft high, with crowded gnarled branches and a low crooked habit. Young branchlets are covered with a pale greyish wool. Fruits are light golden-yellow, green or orange, usually pear shaped and very fragrant.

Quinces contain high levels of pectin. They are used to make jam, jelly, or they may be peeled, then roasted, baked or stewed. Quinces have long been used as a herbal medicine, they are also used in the cosmetic industry and for medicinal cosmetics.