Eriobotrya japonica

– Evergreen tree from China
– Very fast-growing!
– Makes edible yellow fruit in
spring after mild winters
– Needs well-drained soil!
– Large, boldly textured leaves create a tropical look

This might be the easiest fruit tree for Central Texas! Fruits are sweet and taste a lot like apricots, and make a great salsa or chutney if you have too many to eat fresh! Loquats also make a fast-growing evergreen screen, perfect for a protected spot but also recovering quickly when frozen to the ground if they’re well-established. A great addition to any food forest, tropical-inspired garden, formal garden, or shade garden that needs a big evergreen shrub with beautiful, fragrant flowers and fruit.

Light: Full sun to shade

Height: 15′ – 25′
Width: 15′ – 20′

Hardiness Zone: 8