Loquat
Loquat is an evergreen shrub or small tree, scientifically known as *Eriobotrya japonica*, grown for its edible orange fruit and ornamental foliage.
Loquat is an evergreen shrub or small tree, scientifically known as *Eriobotrya japonica*, grown for its edible orange fruit and ornamental foliage. It is native to China and has been widely cultivated in Japan, East Asia, and other subtropical to mild temperate regions. The plant belongs to the rose family, Rosaceae, and is also known as Japanese plum or Japanese medlar.
Description
Loquat is a large evergreen shrub or small tree with coarse, dark green foliage and fragrant flowers. Its fruit grows in clusters and is usually oval or pear-shaped with smooth orange skin, sometimes yellow or red-blushed. The tree is adapted to subtropical and mild temperate climates.
Distribution and cultivation
The species is native to China and was introduced to Japan more than 1,000 years ago, where it became horticulturally developed. It is now grown in many subtropical and mild temperate regions around the world. In Canada, loquat is not native but may be grown by gardeners in sheltered microclimates or as a container plant in some regions; it is generally associated with subtropical climates rather than most Canadian growing conditions.
Uses
Loquat fruit is eaten fresh and processed into preserves, desserts, and beverages, including jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, and wine. The plant is also valued in landscaping for its evergreen appearance and ornamental form. Additionally, loquat leaves and flowers have been used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Cultural and historical significance
Loquat has a long history of cultivation in East Asia, including more than 1,000 years in Japan and over 2,000 years in China according to some sources. It is known by several regional common names, including Japanese plum and Japanese medlar.
Key facts
- Loquat is grown commercially for its fruit and also planted as an ornamental tree.
- It is native to China and was introduced to Japan more than 1,000 years ago.
- Its fruits are commonly eaten fresh and are also used in jams, jellies, chutneys, pies, and wine.
- Loquat leaves and flowers have been used in traditional Chinese medicine.
- The tree is evergreen and adapted to subtropical and mild temperate climates.
Loquat is not native to Canada, but it may be grown by gardeners in sheltered microclimates or as a container plant in some regions; it is generally associated with subtropical climates rather than most Canadian growing conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is a loquat?
Where is loquat native to?
What family does loquat belong to?
What does loquat fruit taste like?
How is loquat used?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LoquatSupports: Scientific name, family, plant form, native range, and general distribution.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/loquatSupports: Definition, family, native range, cultivation history, and fruit uses.
- Clemson University Home & Garden Information Center — https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/loquat/Supports: Common names, family, native range, and ornamental value.
- California Rare Fruit Growers — https://crfg.org/homepage/library/fruitfacts/loquat/Supports: Growth habit, fruit description, cultivation history, and uses.
- University of Florida IFAS Extension — https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/tree_fact_sheets/ERIJAPA.pdfSupports: Scientific name, common name, and family.