QuincePosted 10 years ago under Food, Health, Nutrition

Quince is fruit much like apples or pears in size, shape, and flavor. It is most commonly eaten fresh or in jellies and jams. These fruits are likely the ones referenced as apples in the early history of the Middle East, as apples were not grown much in that area in ancient times while quince was a popular fruit. Some of the health benefits include helping improve digestive health, boosting the immune system, and prevention of gastrointestinal diseases.¹

Taxonomy

Quince grows on the Cydonia oblonga tree.

Kingdom (Plantae) → Angiosperms → Eudicots → Rosids →Order (Rosales) → Family (Rosaceae) → Subfamily (Amygdaloideae) → Tribe (Maleae) → Subtribe (Malinae) → Genus (Cydonia) → Species (Cydonia oblonga)

Description

Quince grows on a deciduous tree that ranges in height from 16 to 26 feet. The leaves are dark green and smooth on top, gray and hairy on the bottom. The flowers are white and light pink in color. The fruit is golden yellow and has a soft, grainy pulp inside the thin outer skin. The fruits can be the size and shape of an apple or pear depending on the variety. ²

Distribution

Quince trees originated in Asia Minor but have spread from that region to temperate climates around the world. They are especially popular in the Middle East and South America. ³ Quince thrives in fertile soil with full sun. ⁴

Nutritional Information

Quince is a delicious fruit that is a great source of nutrition, including dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is high in some B vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin K,  and copper. It also contains phytonutrients including catechin, epicatechin, and phenolic compounds. This fruit is known to help with digestive problems such as inflammatory bowel disorders, diverticulitis, and cancers of the digestive track. They also help lower cholesterol and help with weight maintenance. ⁵

Commercial Cultivation

Quince trees are cultivated by grafting and have a long growing season. ¹ Quince trees need cross-pollination to produce fruits. ⁴ The fruits are harvested in fall. ⁶

Diseases, Pests, Predators

Quince trees are susceptible to a number of diseases and pests. Common diseases include leaf blight, fire blight, and brown rot. These diseases can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections. ²Common pests include aphids, moths, and lace bugs. ⁷

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