Loquat
eriobotrya japonica
Also known as: ["Japanese Medlar","Japanese Plum"]
Overview
A small evergreen tree native to China, cultivated for its sweet, edible fruit and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Genus: | Eriobotrya |
| Botanical Name: | Eriobotrya japonica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates, or indoor pot in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, typically after fruiting in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant regularly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; ensure adequate light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend heavy clay soils with organic matter; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but is sensitive to frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; protect from frost in winter; ensure good air circulation in summer.
Fertilizing
monthly during spring and summer, every 2 months in fall and winter
Fertilize in spring when new growth begins; avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; seeds can also be used but are slower and less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage bushier growth; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the plant, remove dead or diseased wood, and encourage fruiting branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or diseased wood first; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand to improve drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold; stunted growth or bud drop in temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; severe frost can damage or kill the plant.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops; mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced fruit set; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; follow dilution instructions; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly; reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Eriobotrya japonica contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause mild toxicity in cats if ingested in significant amounts. The fruit itself is generally safe for cats in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if seeds are ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Eriobotrya japonica contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause mild toxicity in dogs if ingested in significant amounts. The fruit itself is generally safe for dogs in moderation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if seeds are ingested
Humans
Non-toxicThe seeds of Eriobotrya japonica contain small amounts of cyanogenic glycosides, which can release cyanide when ingested in large quantities. However, the levels are generally not sufficient to cause significant toxicity in typical consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is loquat fruit safe for pets?
A: Yes, loquat fruit is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water a loquat tree?
A: Water deeply once a week, more frequently during dry spells.
Q: Does the loquat tree require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rosaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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