Loquat Seedling (Eriobotrya japonica)

The Loquat tree is a fast-growing, cold hardy ornamental fruiting edible landscape tree with a beautiful tropical look.  It produces a wonderful sweet, tart and tangy fruit from late Winter to early Spring.  Loquat, commonly known as Japanese Plum, is native to China and related to the rose, apple, and pear family.

Loquat trees are known to survive outdoors without protection in Zone 7. If your area is too cold this plant can easily be overwintered indoors and will grow well for decades in a container. 

Medicinally, Loquat leaves and fruit have high concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, iron, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.  The leaves can be used year round to make a tea.