Eriobotrya Japonica P21

Eriobotrya japonica (loquat) is a bold evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its large, leathery, tropical-looking leaves and late-season blossom. In Irish gardens it is best grown in full sun with good shelter (for example against a warm wall), where it can produce clusters of sweetly scented white flowers in autumn to early winter; outdoor fruiting is uncommon except in the mildest locations. A handsome, long-lived specimen for structure and foliage interest, it prefers moderately fertile, well-drained soil; protect young plants from hard frost and cold, drying winds.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Full sun; warm, sheltered site

Rate of Growth: Moderate (faster in favourable conditions)

Soil: Moderately fertile, well-drained soil

Hardiness: Frost hardy in mild parts of Ireland; shelter from cold winds and hard frosts

Plant at a Glance