The loquat (scientific name: Eriobotrya japonica) is a small, evergreen fruit tree native to south eastern China and widely cultivated in subtropical and mild temperate regions worldwide. It is a member of the rose family (Rosaceae), closely related to apples, pears, and quinces. The tree is prized for its ornamental beauty and its delicious fruit.

Physical Characteristics: Tree: Loquat trees typically grow to a height of 10–25 feet (3–8 meters). They have a rounded crown and a bushy appearance, with dense foliage that adds to their decorative appeal. Leaves: The leaves are large, leathery, and dark green, with a glossy upper surface and a fuzzy underside. They are oblong, measuring up to 12 inches (30 cm) in length. Flowers: The tree blooms in the fall or early winter, producing small, fragrant, white-to-creamy flowers that grow in clusters. These flowers attract pollinators like bees. Fruit: The loquat fruit is a small, round, or pear-shaped drupe, measuring 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter. Its thin, smooth skin can range in colour from yellow to orange, often with a slight blush. The flesh is juicy, sweet to tangy, and slightly fragrant, containing a few large, glossy brown seeds at its centre. Loquats are rich in vitamins A and C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants, making them both nutritious and delicious.

Culinary Uses: Loquats are typically eaten fresh but can also be used in a variety of culinary applications. They are popular in: Jams, jellies, and preserves: The fruit's natural pectin content makes it ideal for spreads. Desserts: Pies, tarts, and puddings often incorporate loquats for a sweet and tangy flavour. Beverages: The fruit can be fermented into wine or used in syrups and liqueurs. Growth and Cultivation: Loquats thrive in sunny, well-drained locations with moderate to warm temperatures. They are relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefit from regular watering during fruiting. The tree is hardy to light frost, making it suitable for USDA zones 8–10. Loquats are typically propagated by seed, although grafting is common for specific cultivars.

Cultural Significance: In Chinese culture, loquats symbolize abundance and prosperity, and they often appear in traditional art and literature. In Mediterranean regions, they are cherished as a springtime fruit, ripening earlier than most other fruits. Overall, the loquat is a versatile and attractive tree, valued for its aesthetic appeal and the unique flavour of its fruit.

How To Grow

Growing loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) trees is rewarding, as they are relatively easy to care for and produce delicious fruit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to growing loquats:

1. Choose the Right Location Sunlight: Loquats thrive in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Choose a location with at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily. Climate: Ideal for subtropical and mild temperate climates. Loquats are hardy in USDA zones 8–10. Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0) is best. Loquats can adapt to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as there is good drainage.

2. Propagation You can grow loquats from seeds or propagate them through grafting or cuttings. Here’s how: From Seed: Remove seeds from ripe loquats and wash them to remove any pulp. Plant seeds in a container filled with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. Bury the seed about 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) deep. Water lightly and keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place the container in a warm, sunny spot. Seeds typically germinate within 2–4 weeks. Note: Loquats grown from seed may take 6–8 years to bear fruit and might not produce true-to-type fruit. From Grafting: Grafted trees produce fruit faster (in 2–3 years) and ensure a specific cultivar's characteristics. Grafting is usually done onto a hardy rootstock of loquat or another compatible fruit tree.

3. Planting Once your seedling or grafted loquat is ready to be planted: Timing: Plant in early spring after the last frost or in fall in warmer climates. Hole Preparation: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the tree's root ball. Planting: Place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and press gently to eliminate air pockets. Ensure the graft union (if present) is above the soil line. Spacing: Leave at least 10–15 feet (3–4.5 meters) between loquat trees, as they grow wide.

4. Watering Water deeply immediately after planting. Loquats are drought-tolerant once established but require regular watering during the first year and when fruiting. Maintain consistently moist (but not waterlogged) soil.

5. Fertilizing Fertilize young trees 3–4 times a year with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10 or 6-6-6). Mature trees benefit from fertilization once or twice a year, particularly in spring and summer.

6. Pruning Prune the tree lightly to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and encourage airflow. Conduct major pruning after harvest to control the tree’s size and promote healthy growth.

7. Pollination Loquats are partially self-fertile, but planting multiple trees can improve pollination and increase fruit yield. Bees and other pollinators assist with pollination.

8. Pest and Disease Management Common pests: Aphids, scale insects, and fruit flies. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil for pest control. Common diseases: Fire blight and powdery mildew. Prune infected parts and apply fungicides if necessary.

How/When To Harvesting

Harvesting loquats requires care to ensure you pick the fruit at the right time and handle it properly to avoid damage. Here's how to harvest loquats:

1. Know When to Harvest Colour: Loquats are ready to harvest when their skin turns from green to yellow, orange, or golden, depending on the variety. Feel: Ripe loquats are slightly soft to the touch. Avoid harvesting when the fruit is still hard, as it may not fully ripen off the tree. Taste: For the best flavour, allow the fruit to ripen fully on the tree. Loquats are sweetest when eaten fresh from the tree.

2. Harvesting Method Hand-Picking: Grasp the fruit gently and twist or cut it off the branch. Avoid pulling the fruit, as this may damage the stem or the branch. Pick clusters of fruit together, as loquats often grow in bunches. Using Pruners: Use a clean pair of garden scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem holding the cluster. This minimizes bruising and preserves the fruit’s freshness.

3. Handle with Care Loquats are delicate and bruise easily. Place the fruit gently into a basket or container lined with soft material (like cloth or paper towels) to avoid damage.

4. Storage Immediate Use: Loquats are best enjoyed fresh within a few days of harvesting. Refrigeration: Store ripe loquats in the refrigerator for up to a week. Preservation: Freeze peeled and deseeded loquats for long-term storage. Make jam, jelly, or preserves for extended use.

Tips for Better Harvesting: Harvest Early in the Morning: Cooler temperatures in the morning help keep the fruit fresh and firm. Harvest Regularly: Check the tree every few days during the ripening season, as not all loquats ripen at the same time. Avoid Overripe Fruit: Overripe loquats can ferment and fall off the tree. With careful timing and proper handling, you can enjoy the best flavor and texture from your loquat harvest.