Fruit

Eriobotrya japonica

S tier

Eriobotrya japonica is loquat—an evergreen rosaceous tree bearing orange, downy-skinned early-season pomes with sweet-tart floral flesh and large shiny seeds. Flavour suggests apricot-citrus-honey; texture is juicy and delicate. Flowers in autumn/winter for spring fruit in mild climates—unusual calendar among common fruits. Eat peeled or skin-on if fuzz is acceptable; watch seeds (large, discard). Excellent fresh, in jams, and Asian-style syrups. Fruit bruises and ferments fast—use quickly. Mediterranean, East Asian, and Californian gardens excel. Thin fruit for size.