Pseudocydonia sinensis is a long-lived flowering tree from China that reaches around 20 feet tall with a 15-foot spread, occupying the modest middle ground between small specimen tree and large shrub. It leafs out early, announcing itself with pink blossoms in early spring before most other trees have stirred. But its most distinctive quality is the bark — exfoliating in a mosaic of gray, green, orange, and brown throughout the year, creating a living pattern that becomes more interesting with every decade of age. The genus name literally means false quince, acknowledging its kinship without full membership.

Growing well in average, moist, well-drained soil in full sun, it is more adaptable than its appearance might suggest — tolerating poor soils and periods of drought once established. At the colder end of its range, zones 6 through 8, a sheltered position away from prevailing winter winds is a worthwhile precaution. It casts light shade and transplants without difficulty, tolerating pruning readily provided gardeners remember that flowering occurs on old wood. Large golden-yellow quinces follow the flowers and are edible, if rarely sought out for the table. Fireblight is the primary disease concern.