Osteomeles schwerinae, commonly known as Chinese Emperor Plum, is an evergreen shrub native to the thickets and open forests of East Asia. It reaches a typical height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) and spreads 6-9 feet (1.8-2.7 meters) wide. The plant has a dense, rounded form and produces small, fragrant white flowers in the spring, which resemble those of hawthorn species and are followed by small, round, white pomes. The sweet-flavored fruits are edible and can be consumed raw or used in culinary preparations such as jellies and jams. The foliage remains glossy green throughout the year, adding to its ornamental value.

Chinese Emperor Plum is appreciated for its low maintenance, tolerance to pruning, and versatility in the landscape. It is suitable for use as a hedge, in mixed borders, or as a specimen plant. Additionally, its compact size and attractive form make it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, requires medium amounts of water, and prefers well-drained soils. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0