Overview
Eriobotrya japonica (F) is a bushy shrubs in the genus Eriobotrya, part of the Rosaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 4-8 metres tall and 4-8 metres wide, reaching full size in around 20-50 years. Eriobotrya japonica (F) grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. It is low maintenance. Suggested uses include architectural, coastal, city and courtyard gardens, low maintenance and wall side borders. It is native to China.
About
Eriobotrya japonica, commonly known as Japanese loquat, is a bushy evergreen shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. It typically grows to a height and spread of 4 to 8 metres, reaching full size over 20 to 50 years. This low-maintenance plant thrives in full sun with a south- or east-facing aspect and prefers sheltered locations. It adapts well to various soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, with a preference for well-drained conditions across acid, alkaline, and neutral pH levels. The Japanese loquat is notable for its interest during the winter season.
About the genus
Eriobotrya is a genus of flowering plants, mostly large evergreen shrubs and small trees, in the family Rosaceae, native to woodland in the Himalayas and East Asia. The loquat, E. japonica, is grown for its edible fruit.
Wikipedia contributors, "Eriobotrya", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Eriobotrya
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Eriobotrya
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Eriobotrya japonica (F) size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Coastal, City and courtyard gardens, Low Maintenance, Wall side borders
- Native to
- China
- Fragrance
- Sweet, fragrant flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Eriobotrya japonica (F)
- Cultivation
- Prefers mild, frost-free climates; requires protection from severe frost; benefits from regular watering during dry periods
- Pruning
- Prune after fruiting to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches
- Propagation
- Seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Eriobotrya japonica (F)?
Prefers mild, frost-free climates; requires protection from severe frost; benefits from regular watering during dry periods.
Where is the best place to plant Eriobotrya japonica (F)?
Eriobotrya japonica (F) prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Eriobotrya japonica (F) need?
Eriobotrya japonica (F) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Eriobotrya japonica (F)?
Prune after fruiting to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches.
How big does Eriobotrya japonica (F) grow?
Eriobotrya japonica (F) reaches a height of 4-8 metres and a spread of 4-8 metres. It takes around 20-50 years to reach full size.
Is Eriobotrya japonica (F) hardy in the UK?
Eriobotrya japonica (F) has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Eriobotrya japonica (F)?
Seed, Semi-hardwood cuttings.