The world of quinces is surprisingly huge! There are so many different varieties out there, ranging from tiny fruits to absolute giants. If you’ve been curious about adding one to your backyard or just want to know what’s what at the farmers market, here’s a quick guide to the most important quince varieties.
A Huge Variety Right in Our Backyards
In Germany alone, records show about 56 documented quince varieties. While some older types have faded away because they were a bit too finicky for the average garden, they’ve been replaced by much hardier, robust versions. Plus, plant breeders are always coming out with new cultivars to keep things interesting.
When you’re looking at quince trees, you’ll generally see them split into two categories: apple quinces and pear quinces. It’s pretty much what it sounds like! Apple quinces are round like an apple, while pear quinces have that classic elongated shape. If you’re looking for a punch of flavor, apple quinces usually have a much more intense aroma. Their texture is a bit drier and firmer, whereas pear quinces tend to have softer flesh.
A Closer Look at Quince Varieties
Yes, quinces are edible, and they are absolute superstars when it comes to making homemade jams, jellies, and even brandy. But can you eat them raw right off the tree? Well, it depends. Most traditional varieties are way too hard, tart, or fuzzy to enjoy raw. However, some newer “dessert” varieties like the ‘Honigquitte’ (Honey Quince) or ‘Rohköstler’ are bred specifically to be eaten fresh. For the older types, the tough skin and hard flesh mean they really need some heat to shine.
If you’re planning on a marathon jam-making session, varieties like the ‘Muskatquitte,’ ‘Baumwollquitte,’ or the ‘Fränkische Hausquitte’ are your best friends. And while quince wine or schnapps might be an acquired taste for some, almost everyone loves a good quince jelly. Here is a quick list of some notable varieties you might come across:
- Adamsova
- Agrambari
- Bencikli
- Bereczki Apple Quince
- Bereczki Pear Quince
- Blanar
- Champion
- Cydora
- Cukurgöbek
- Cydopom
- Danuviana
- De Mosna
- Ekmek Ayvasi
- Gamboas
- Gutui de Husui
- Hehn
- Hemus
- Isfahn
- Ingenheimer Giant Quince
- Ispolinskaja
- Konstantinopler
- Krymska – rannjaja
- Le Bourgeaut
- Leskovacz
- Ludovic
- Maliforme Aurii
- Meech’s Prolific
- Multiforma Frankonia
- Mostquitte
- Pasardschinska
- Pear Shaped
- Pinter
- Plovdivskaya
- Radonia
- Rea’s Mammoth
- Ronda