The true fruiting quinces are related to the apple and pear. In Greek and Roman times, the word for "apple" could refer to any of these 3 fruits. Many biblical and language scholars believe that the "apple" in Genesis was actually a quince and the name was mis-transliterated by Latin scribes. The leaves are softer in structure than apple or pear - somewhat velvety to the touch. The Smyrna Quince blossoms are about 3 centimeters (a little over an inch) across.
