Eriobotrya japonica (Loquat)

Eriobotrya japonica, commonly known as loquat or Japanese medlar, is an evergreen fruit tree in the Rosaceae family, native to southeastern China and cultivated in East Asia for centuries. It forms a rounded, dense crown and typically grows 10-25 ft tall. The large, leathery, strongly veined leaves are dark green above and covered with rusty-brown hairs beneath. Fragrant creamy white flowers appear in dense terminal clusters in fall or winter, followed by rounded to pear-shaped fruits that ripen in spring or early summer. The yellow to orange fruits have juicy, aromatic, sweet to tart flesh surrounding several large brown seeds. Numerous cultivars have been selected for fruit size, flavor, flesh color, and seed number.

Eriobotrya japonica grows best in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil, although it adapts to many soil types. Established trees tolerate moderate drought, but regular moisture improves fruit development. The tree itself tolerates light frost, while flowers and young fruits are considerably more cold-sensitive, so crop production is most reliable where winters are mild. Loquat can be grown as an ornamental shade tree even where fruiting is unreliable. Named cultivars are usually propagated by grafting or budding. It is generally suitable for USDA Zones 8-11.

More to read:

- Article about Loquat

- Video about Loquat

- PDF download. Overlooked fruit: tasty Loquat recipes. (from Tropical Treasures Magazine).