Quince
Vivid red, pink, and coral blossoms appear on the bare branches of flowering quince in early spring, often before most shrubs have leafed out. Thorny, densely branched stems make an effective barrier hedge and a striking accent for cottage gardens. In fall, fragrant fruits develop that are too tart to eat raw but excellent for jellies and preserves. Its gnarled branches are popular with bonsai growers, and it adapts to a wide range of soils. Quince seed sprouts after a cool, moist winter rest, and young seedlings are a classic starting point for bonsai with naturally twisting trunks.