Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) SOUTH OF ADMINISTRATION

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6	This tree is much admired for its large evergreen foliage and edible fruit which is considered a great delicacy in the Orient. It is a close relative of pears and apples (not citrus as the common name might suggest)

In Depth

Eriobotrya japonica, Loquat, Japanese plum, Japanese medlar, or Nispero Location: South of the Administration building, north of Shantz, north of Veterinary Sci, and elsewhere around campus FAMILY: Rosaceae, the Rose family DISTRIBUTION: indigenous to southeastern China, introduced in Japan and elsewhere. HABITAT: subtropical to mild-temperature climate zones. HABIT: small tree FLOWERING: early spring, even winter in our area Natural History Notes: The genus name, Eriobotrya, originates from the Greek erion "wool" and botrys "cluster" referring to the dusty woolly coating on the clustered fruits and leaves. The name japonica refers to Japan. The plant originates from China, but has been cultivated in Japan for over 1,000 years. Distinguishing Characteristics: Eriobotrya japonica is a small tree reaching up to 25 ft. The leaves are 6-10 in long and about 2 in wide. The branches and underside of leaves are covered with rust-colored dense woolly hairs. The leaves have very noticeable veins (12-15 pairs per leaf) and toothed margins. The flowers are almost ½ inch wide with a musty odor. The fruits are 1-1 ½ inch long and yellow. The flesh is edible, and each fruit contains a few large shiny brown seeds. Human Uses: Commonly cultivated for the very acidic, but edible, fruits that are eaten raw, cooked, or used in jam. A large number of cultivars have been developed. Over 800 known in Japan, differing in the color, texture, and sweetness of the fruit flesh. The trees are attractive ornamentals although they require more water than many truly drought-adapted plants (xerophytes).