Chojubai Flowering Quince 005

Chojubai, Chaenomeles japonica ‘Chojubai’, also known as Dwarf Japanese Flowering Quince, is a compact cultivar of Japanese Flowering Quince. Despite the character for “plum” in its Japanese and Chinese name, it is not a true plum tree. Its small leaves, fine branching and weathered bark lend themselves beautifully to small bonsai with intricate, layered silhouettes. This red-flowered selection features vivid red blooms nestled among delicate branches.

Chojubai can flower more than once a year under suitable growing conditions, though it does not bloom continuously throughout the year. When the leaves fall, its branching structure becomes more apparent, with occasional flowers opening on bare wood—a quiet contrast between delicate blooms and aged branches.

Chojubai tolerates partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained soil. It is best grown outdoors in a bright, well-ventilated position, with sufficient sunlight to encourage flowering. In Hong Kong’s summer heat, provide protection from intense afternoon sun and keep the soil from drying out completely, while avoiding waterlogging.