Loquats were once one of many exotic-sounding "tropical" fruits I knew nothing about, until I learned that they are surprisingly hardy and thrive right here in northern California. There are around 30 species that belong the the genus Eriobotrya, mostly small trees and shrubs. All are native to Asia. They belong to the Rosaceae family, along with many other more common edible fruits like apples and stone fruits.
Two species are commonly cultivated in Sacramento. E. japonica, usually just called loquat, is the primary species cultivated for its edible fruit. E. deflexa, the bronze loquat, is less common and used mainly as a visual accent for its red spring growth and white flowers. Both make interesting, tropical-looking small shade trees.
Loquats generally do well in Sacramento, but do need irrigation to stay healthy. They can occasionally become infected with fireblight, but it does not usually cause serious damage as it does with pears and apples. Overall they are an easy and exotic looking fruit tree for an edible landscape or someone who desires a smaller shade tree.
Two species are commonly cultivated in Sacramento. E. japonica, usually just called loquat, is the primary species cultivated for its edible fruit. E. deflexa, the bronze loquat, is less common and used mainly as a visual accent for its red spring growth and white flowers. Both make interesting, tropical-looking small shade trees.
Loquats generally do well in Sacramento, but do need irrigation to stay healthy. They can occasionally become infected with fireblight, but it does not usually cause serious damage as it does with pears and apples. Overall they are an easy and exotic looking fruit tree for an edible landscape or someone who desires a smaller shade tree.