Loquat - Eriobotrya japonica (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Edible)

Loquat

Also known as: Japanese plum, Nespola

The loquat is an evergreen tree that bears delicious fruit, which shares its name. Its origins lie in China, but the tree has since been introduced to a variety of locations across Asia, Southern Europe, and North America. The fruit is generally eaten raw, mixed into fruit salads, or turned into jam. The seeds, however, should not be eaten. In Italy, loquat is used to make nespolino liqueur.

Scientific classification

Species

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter

Bloom Time

Spring, Early summer

Harvest Time

3 m to 10 m

Plant Height

6 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.2 cm to 2 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Orange, Gold

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Gray

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Fall, Winter

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Loquat

Distribution of Loquat

Distribution Map

Loquat is native to China, where it is cultivated for its fruit. Its native habitat includes valleys and forests. Loquat has been introduced on all continents but Antarctica. It is often used in gardens or as a houseplant. Loquat is considered invasive in the Mediterranean, Australia, South Africa, and some Pacific islands.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Old dump

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

This tropical tree does well as an accent and screening plant. The loquat is commonly grown in winter, pollinator, and drought-tolerant gardens. It is prized for its edible pome fruit and neat, compact growth which makes it ideal for smaller spaces, as well as its ability to attract hummingbirds. Companion plants of the loquat include the Purple coneflower, Japanese banana, Chinese windmill palm, and the Bishop of Llandaff dahlia.

Symbolism

Pure and unique beauty, wealth

Interesting Facts

Loquats bloom in the cold winter. It is neither as warm and bright as the camellia, nor as beautiful and fragrant as the plum. Its small white flowers bloom lightly and silently, not for a beautiful or shocking bloom, but to breed sweet fruit in the next year.

Name Story

Loquat: The fruit of this plant is popular because of its delicacy. It has a long history and it can be traced back to a thousand years ago. The word "Loquat" is originated from the pronunciation of lou gwat in Cantonese. In fact, it refers to black orange in Cantonese. Then, it was mistaken for Eriobotrya japonica. To make the best out of the worst situation, the fruit is called Loquat.

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Toxicity

The plant loquat poses a moderate toxicity risk to cats and dogs, primarily through ingestion of its seeds. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary care is essential to manage toxic effects. Ensure pets do not have access to loquat seeds.

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Quickly Identify Loquat

Woolly hairs cover stem and underside of leaves, providing unique texture for identification.

Fruit transitions from green to gold with fleshy flesh and 1-5 large enclosed seeds.

Leaves are dark green, wrinkled, leathery, with toothed edges; simple, alternate, elliptic-lanceolate.

White to whitish-pink fragrant flowers with rusty, brownish haired stems and sepals.

Robust evergreen plant vulnerable to temperatures below 28°F (-2°C), producing 3-6 inches summer panicles.

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Care Guide for Loquat

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating in a subtropical climate, loquat tolerates drought while preferring consistent moisture. Water every 1-2 weeks to keep the soil evenly moist but not saturated. Often grown outdoors, loquat thrives with mulch, which retains moisture and minimizes watering needs.

Fertilize: Provide loquat with balanced nutrition fertilizers quarterly, reducing in winter. Young loquat need higher nitrogen, while mature trees require potassium and phosphorus. Use slow-release formulas, water post-application, and adjust seasonally for optimal health and yield.

Pruning: Loquat is an evergreen fruit tree with large, glossy leaves and sweet fruits. Prune in early to late spring, cutting above outward-facing buds to encourage growth. Regular pruning enhances fruit quality, tree health, and aesthetics, but avoid heavy pruning to prevent reduced fruit production.

Propagation: Loquat propagation is best in Spring or Winter using grafting and layering methods. It's somewhat challenging, with success signaled by new growth. Patience is essential for favorable outcomes.

Repotting: Repot loquat every 2-3 years in late winter, using a slightly larger container. After repotting, water deeply, protect from direct sunlight for a week, and provide regular feeding to promote healthy growth.

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Images of Loquat

Distribution of Loquat

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Loquat

Care Guide for Loquat

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