Big, ribbed evergreen leaves and clusters of sweet-tart yellow fruit that ripen in early spring. Fragrant winter flowers feed the bees when little else is in bloom.
At a glance
- Plant type: Fruiting tree
- Mature size: 6 m H × 5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Loquat
Botanically, Eriobotrya japonica is a moderate-growing fruiting tree in the Rosaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow Loquat
Loquat suits subtropical, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Loquat does best in free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Loquat is regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Loquat in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Loquat in the garden
Loquat earns its place for edible harvests, a feature or specimen planting and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Loquat with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Buying Loquat
Plant Sale lists Loquat as potted plants, advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.