Native to south-eastern China, loquat is now widely cultivated in subtropical and tropical regions around the world. It has many common names, such as Chinese plum, Japanese plum, Japanese medlar and Japanese apricot. In Japan loquat is associated with folklore and is believed to bring good fortune. Loquat is an excellent choice of garden tree, as it’s easy to grow, requires minimal care and can live up to 75 years – making a stunning statement tree with beautiful foliage.
Identifying loquat trees
Loquat is not the same as medlar, although its fruits are sometimes called ‘Japanese medlars’. Medlar, also in the Rosaceae family, is a small deciduous tree that resembles a cross between a crab apple and a quince. Loquat trees are evergreen, with large tropical style leaves.
As a guide, loquat trees can eventually reach a height of 8m with a spread of 6m when fully mature. There are varieties available with a more compact growth habit, and others that are larger and more sprawling. Pruning can help maintain the desired size and shape of the loquat tree.
Loquat fruits are a source of food for garden birds and mammals and its fragrant, pollen-rich flowers are attractive to bees and other pollinating insects.
Loquat fruits are a refreshing, nutritious snack because they’re low in calories with a high water content. It is possible to produce fruit from a loquat in the UK, but it can be difficult to get the fruit to ripen as it’s harvested in spring. For the best chance of getting fruit, grow your tree against a warm wall. The fruit can be eaten raw or used in in jams, jellies, and desserts. Loquats have a range of nutritional benefits:
Plant loquat trees in a sunny and sheltered location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They are are generally frost resistant and will grow in various soil types, including sandy or loamy soils as long as they are free-draining and slightly acidic to neutral, (with a pH range between 6 and 7).
Choose a planting site that is protected from strong winds, as loquat trees have delicate branches that can break easily. Protection such as a fence or windbreak, can help create an ideal growing environment. Loquat trees can also be grown in containers but need space to spread their branches.
How to plant a loquat tree
To plant a loquat tree, dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and add compost or organic matter to the soil. Place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly, and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Once established, water it regularly during dry periods and fertilise it twice a year, in early spring and midsummer, with a balanced organic fertiliser.
How to prune a loquat tree
This is only necessary if you want to shape your tree. If so, do this in early spring before new growth begins. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Thin out crowded areas by selectively removing crossing or inward-growing branches to improve air circulation and light penetration. Maintain a balanced shape by pruning back long or leggy branches. It’s important to avoid excessive pruning as loquat trees have a naturally attractive form. Remember to use clean, sharp pruning tools and make clean cuts just outside the branch collar. Regular pruning will promote healthy growth, maintain the tree’s shape, and improve fruit production.
