Chaenomeles speciosa (Flowering Quince)

A large spiny shrub that provides edible fruits for birds, large and small mammals. The parent species has brilliant scarlet red flowers, but there are hybrid varieties in white, apricot, pink and orange shades as well. The flowers usually bloom in May or June depending on variety. Grow in full sun, well-drained soil and water once-a-week. This plant is not bothered by rabbits, squirrels nor deer.