Portugal

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Portugal is a well-known quince variety, capable of producing large fruits with a very good flavor when grown in the right conditions.

The fruit is ready for picking at the end of September, which is slightly earlier than most other quinces. However the fruits should be stored indoors (at room temperature) for a few weeks to ripen properly.

Portugal quinces may turn a crimson pink when cooked (depending on how ripe they were). They have a soft texture and mild flavor which makes them particularly suitable for making quince marmalade. They are generally considered the best flavored of all quinces.

Cydonia oblonga

Portugal quince trees for sale

• 1-year maiden bare-root tree 33.95€
  Quince A rootstock
  Large size (3m-4m after 10 years)
  

  Out of stock

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How to grow

Although like all quinces Portugal is a fairly hardy tree, it needs a sheltered location to produce good quality ripe fruit. It prefers a dry climate and is not suitable for the wetter north-west of the UK - it is probably the most challenging quince variety to grow.

Whereas many quince trees have an attractive growth habit, Portugal is not the best choice for a feature tree - it is grown just for the fruit. It works well as a fan-trained tree or just simply allowed to grow up a south-facing brick wall.

Portugal is self-fertile and no pollination partner is required.

History

Unknown origins but introduced to England in the early 17th century.

Portugal characteristics

• Fruit bearingTip-bearer
• Summer average maximum temperaturesWarm (25-30C / 76-85F)Hot (>30C / 86F)