Little Leaf Linden vs Japanese Quince

Little Leaf Linden is a large, deciduous shade tree that is native to Europe. The leaves are heart shaped with fine teeth on the margins. It has much smaller leaves than Large Leaf Linden.

Its small, fragrant yellow-green flowers are said to have medicinal properties and can also be used to make honey. Little leaf Linden is a great choice for a boulevard or large lot.

Japanese Quince has bright, orange to red showy flowers that bloom in early spring. The flowers appear before the leaves and may continue to bloom after leaves emerge. Flowers grow on old wood, so pruning after flowering will help to promote new growth next spring. They produce yellow-green fruit that taste bitter when eaten raw, typically they are better suited for making preserves.

It can be used as a stand alone ornamental shrub, as a low hedge, or can be trained to grow against a wall. In late winter, branches of Japanese Quince can be cut and brought indoors where they will bloom on their own. They are deer and rabbit tolerant. The branches are spiny making them well suited for keeping unwanted wildlife away.

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