
Dhara Seeds
Loquat Fruit (Eriobotrya japonica)
Estimated delivery between March 28 and March 31.
Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica), also known as the Japanese Plum, is a delicious and aromatic fruit prized for its sweet, tangy flavor with hints of apricot, citrus, and mango. This small, pear-shaped fruit has smooth, golden-orange skin and juicy, tender flesh, making it perfect for fresh eating, jams, desserts, and preserves. Loquat trees are evergreen, drought-tolerant, and highly ornamental, featuring glossy green leaves and fragrant white blossoms in the fall and winter. Thriving in warm climates, Loquat is a rewarding fruit tree for home gardeners and orchard growers alike.
Features & Specifications:
- Scientific Name: Eriobotrya japonica
- Common Name: Loquat, Japanese Plum, Chinese Plum
- Fruit Size: Small, pear-shaped, 1–2 inches long
- Fruit Color: Golden-yellow to orange
- Taste Profile: Sweet, tangy, and mildly tropical with notes of apricot and mango
- Texture: Juicy, smooth, and tender with a slight bite
- Harvest Time: Late winter to early spring (varies by region)
- Hardiness Zone: 8-10
- Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Requirements: Well-drained, loamy soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH
- Uses: Fresh eating, fruit salads, jams, jellies, chutneys, baked goods, and beverages
- Health Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants; supports digestion, eye health, and immune function
- Pollination: Self-pollinating, but planting multiple trees improves fruit yield
- Plant Height: 10-25 feet (can be pruned for smaller growth)
- Growth Habit: Evergreen tree with a dense, spreading canopy
- Flowering Season: Fall to early winter
- Fruit Season: Late winter to early spring
Growing Tips:
- Loquat trees thrive in warm, subtropical to temperate climates and are moderately drought-tolerant once established.
- Plant in well-drained soil with good organic matter and ensure the site gets at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily.
- Water regularly during dry periods but avoid overwatering, as Loquats are sensitive to waterlogged soil.
- Prune trees after harvest to remove deadwood and shape the canopy, promoting healthy fruit production.
- Fertilize with a balanced during the growing season to support flowering and fruiting.
- Loquat fruits ripen when they turn deep golden-orange and slightly soften. Harvest by cutting fruit clusters from the tree.
- Enjoy Loquats fresh, or use them in fruit salads, preserves, pies, or smoothies for a refreshing tropical treat.
Loquat trees not only produce delicious fruit but also make excellent ornamental trees with their lush foliage and fragrant flowers. Whether grown for their juicy, apricot-like fruit or their aesthetic appeal, Loquats are a fantastic addition to any garden or orchard!