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].

Edible Uses: Fruit - raw, cooked or preserved[46]. A slightly acid, sweet aromatic flavour[200], they can be eaten out of hand or cooked in pies, sauces, jellies etc[3]. Loquat pie, if made from fruit that is not fully ripe, is said to taste like cherry pie[183]. The fruit is produced in winter and early spring[132], it is up to 4cm in diameter[200]. A nutritional analysis is available[218]. Seed - cooked. A pleasant flavour[142]. Caution is advised if the seed is bitter, see notes at top of the page. The roasted seed is a coffee substitute[105, 177, 183].

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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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