The Loquat is a beautiful evergreen fruit tree native to Asia, often called a Japanese Loquat. It is a small to medium sized tree growing 20 to 30 feet, but often smaller. The long, elliptical, serrated leaves add a tropical look to the garden and the bold textured foliage contrasts well with many other plants, such as palm trees. The leaves are dark green and glossy on top and hairy on the underside. The flowers are white panicles at the ends of the branches that appear in late Fall or early Winter with a pleasant sweet fragrance. The exotic fruits are oval or pear-shaped and grow in clusters. They are usually 1 to 2 inches long with a downy smooth, yellow or orange, sometimes red blushed skin. The succulent white, yellow, or orange flesh has a sweet-tangy flavor. Some might describe it as a cross between a sweet plum and a kumquat or citrusy flavor. In Asia the fruit is so prized that it is often covered by a protective bag to prevent sunburn and eliminate bird damage. If you live in mild winter areas form Zones 7-10, the Loquat tree will make an attractive and tasty addition to your landscape.