Fruit and Nut Trees

by steve stamos

Loquat is an evergreen small subtropical tree that can grow to 5-10 m tall, indigenous to southeastern and central-eastern China. It is grown mostly in the garden for both as ornamental and for its fruit. The leaves are large, deep green, and glossy, with a grayish hairy underside. Flowers are small and fragrant. They are unusual among fruit trees in that the flowers appear in the fall or early winter, they actually can flower several times a year, with their largest crops produced during winter and spring. They are normally pollinated by bees

The fruits, are borne in large loose clusters, are round or oval and may reach a length of 7 cm. They vary in color from pale yellow to orange-yellow with one or more large pits in the middle that comprise about 20% to 30% of the fruit’s weight. The flesh inside is juicy with a delicious flavor, creamy white and sweet if left to ripen on the tree before picking. The fruit should be peeled prior to eating; the skin can be peeled by hand when fruit is ripe. Seeds MUST be removed before use, as they are toxic!

The loquat tree produces fruit that has a high sugar, acid and pectin content. It can be eaten as a fresh fruit and mixes well with other fruits in fresh fruit salads. Firm, slightly immature fruits are best for making pies or tarts. The fruits are also commonly used to make juices, jams, jelly, chutney and wine. Syrup made from the fruit is used in Chinese medicine for soothing throat conditions. It can make a great specimen tree in your garden.

The Loquat is an easy tree to grow. It does well on a variety of soils but does best on clay loams with good drainage. The tree bears fruit at about 10 yrs old but winter conditions have to be right in order to do so. It needs full sun for best form and fruit. Once established, is drought resistant and maintenance free. They are grown from seed but the best varieties are propagated by grafts. Primarily grown for fruit, choose a variety selected for your area. Plant a specimen tree in the garden away from swimming pools or parking areas.

loquat
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