Loquat

Abstract

The loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.), also known as the Japanese plum tree and the yellow plum tree, is a plant of the Rosaceae family and Pomoideas subfamily, and with its origin in southwest China. The loquat fruits are spread in worldwide, as observed in various regions of Asian continent (Japan, India, Madagascar, and South Korea), Mediterranean (Spain, France, Turkey, Greece, Portugal and Italy) and across the Americas. Loquat fruits are considered to be fruits of pommel type, with the fleshy portion composing a small floral container (3–5 cm in diameter) and a shape varying from spherical to oval and a unit weight of about 10–80 g. The peel shows a velvety texture of a yellow–orange and sometimes pink color. The pulp is juicy, presenting a pleasant aroma with a coloration ranging from white to orange–salmon, rich in vitamin C and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. The pulp is firm and fleshy, or more softened, and the flavor varies from sweet to acidic depending on the variety and stage of maturation. The seeds are located in the center of the fruits, and often found in number of 3–5 per fruit with brown coloration. The trunk is relatively short and the root system is characterized as superficial, extending approximately 25–30 cm deep.