Bring early-season color to your landscape with Chaenomeles speciosa 'Double Take(R) Peach' (Flowering Quince 'Double Take Peach'). This upright to rounded, multi-stemmed shrub is prized for its large, soft peach, double flowers that open in late winter through early spring, often before the leaves. Because the stems are thornless and the plant is typically fruitless, it fits beautifully near walkways, patios, and family spaces without the mess or snagging common to older quince selections.
Plant yours in full sun for the strongest bloom and best color, though it will tolerate part shade (especially helpful in warmer climates where a bit of afternoon shade can prolong the flowers). Provide average, well-drained soil; it adapts to a range of soil types, including heavier clay, but performs best where drainage is good. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots. Once established, it handles periods of dry soil well, making it a dependable choice for low-fuss gardens.
At maturity, expect a height of about 48-60 inches with a similar spread. Space plants about 5-6 feet apart if you are planting a hedge or grouping in a border. It also works as a foundation shrub, spring accent, or specimen, and it is deer resistant in many landscapes. Branches with unopened buds can be cut and brought indoors to force into bloom for an easy seasonal display.
Prune only as needed, and time pruning right: do it just after flowering to shape the plant and remove dead or broken stems. Because flowering is largely on older wood, heavy pruning at the wrong time can reduce next season's bloom. In areas with late freezes, a slightly sheltered site can help protect flower buds from early spring frost damage.