Eriobotrya japonica Loquat (Rosaceae) Evergreen tree

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Eriobotrya japonica
Loquat
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Eriobotrya japonica plant species is found in E. Asia - China, Japan. It is a member of the Rosaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Loquat. Some home gardeners know the variety as Mespilus japonica. Photinia japonica.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Eriobotrya japonica
Common Name:  Loquat
Family:  Rosaceae
Author:  (Thunb.)Lindley.

Known Hazards:  The seed is slightly poisonous. This report probably refers to the hydrogen cyanide that is found in many plants of this family, the seed should only be used in small amounts if it is bitter[K]. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Mature Height:  9   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  Not known in the wild[109].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a fertile well-drained soil in full sun or light shade[200]. Succeeds in any well-drained soil but dislikes too much lime[3]. Prefers to be near the coast, tolerating maritime exposure but dislikes cold winds[200]. Tolerates dry soils[200]. Succeeds in an open position in the milder areas of Britain but usually requires wall protection in most of this country[11, 59]. Plants are hardy to at least -5°c, and can survive to between -12 and -17°c but with some damage[200]. Plants from different provenences differ widely in their hardiness, it is best to obtain stock as cuttings from plants that are established in this country[219]. Trees usually only flower and produce fruit in Britain after a long hot summer[11, 202], but a tree at Maidwell Hall in Northants fruits regularly[11]. The main difficulty with producing a crop of fruit from this tree is that the plant flower in the winter and will not ripen fruit of a satisfactory standard if the winter is cold. Indeed, the fruit is rendered inedible by hard frosts in cold areas[200]. Often cultivated for its edible fruit in warm temperate regions, there are more than 800 cultivars in Japan[200]. 'Advance' is a dwarf tree with very juicy fruits[200]. The flowers emit a most potent oriental perfume[245].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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