Eriobotrya japonica – Japanese loquat
Discover a unique jewel of the Far East that you can grow at home! Eriobotrya japonica, known as Japanese loquat or medlar, is an evergreen tree native to southeastern China, where it has been cultivated for over a thousand years. Its juicy and sweet and sour fruits are not only delicious, but also rich in vitamins and minerals that will enrich your diet and your day.
This tree stands out for its large, leathery leaves with a felt surface that give the plant an exotic look. During the winter months, it blooms with beautiful, sweet-scented white flowers that attract pollinators. The loquat fruits are light orange in color, grow to a size of 2-3 cm, and their taste is reminiscent of apricots with a subtle exotic nuance.
The loquat is surprisingly hardy - although frost resistance to -5°C is commonly stated, our experience shows that small seedlings have survived frosts down to -15°C without any problems, without damage to the leaves!
In the warmer regions of the Czech Republic, it can be successfully grown in open ground with winter protection. For everyone else, it is ideal as a portable plant in a flowerpot - in the summer it enjoys the sun in the garden or on the terrace, in the winter it appreciates a bright and cool place indoors.
HEIGHT OF PLANTS SOLD 15 to 20 CM
PRICE 5 EURO
Instructions for growing Japanese loquat
Substrate:
Preferably more acidic and well permeable
Recommended mixture: 2 parts peat, 1 part perlite, a little sand and clay from the garden.
Watering:
Water only when the substrate is slightly dry
in winter, we limit watering, after watering, we pour out the excess water from the undergrowth.
Habitat for cultivation:
All year round at home: As close to the window as possible, with enough light.
Summering is possible outside on the terrace, garden or balcony and only from spring to autumn
In the warmer regions of the Czech Republic, older plants can be grown outdoors all year round.
Wintering:
subtropical plant – cannot withstand long-term temperatures below -15 °C. Winter at min. temperature 1C
for the winter, place in a cool room - bedroom, corridor, conservatory or greenhouse.
In the warmer regions of the Czech Republic, older plants can be grown outdoors all year round.
Fertilization:
in the season from March to November, once every 14 days.
Suitable fertilizer:
long-term granulated fertilizer OSMOCOTE