The Quince Tree.
Cydonia.
A common tree in our gardens, of irregular growth. The trunk is thick, and has a brown bark. The branches are numerous, straggling, and spreading. The leaves are roundish, of a dusky green on the upper side, and whitish underneath. The flowers or blossoms are large and beautiful, of a pale flesh colour. The fruit is of the shape of a pear, and has a large crown: it is yellow when ripe, and of a pleasant smell: its taste is austere, but agreeable. The seeds are soft and mucilaginous.
The fruit and seeds are used. The juice of the ripe quince made into a syrup with sugar, is excellent to stop vomiting, and to strengthen the stomach. The seed, boiled in water, gives it a softness, and mucilaginous quality; and it is an excellent medicine for sore mouths, and may be used to soften and moisten the mouth and throat in fevers.
