Bronze Loquat is more often planted than Japanese Loquat. Its shiny bronzy green new foliage with reddish highlights is quite attractive, and it rarely sets fruit. Large panicles of deep pink flowers are showy in the spring. It looks best with regular pruning to maintain its shape, and regular deep watering to promote healthy growth. It may require regularly scheduled light top-trimming (but not necessarily shearing) of vigorous top shoots to maintain its height below 25. It is not drought tolerant.

Native Range: Taiwan and Southern Vietnam

Horticultural use: Screen, Espalier or Hedged

Schoolyard Use: This tree has shiny, dark green leaves with a leathery texture, making it a good candidate for teaching about leaf structure and water conservation strategies. The leaves’ glossy surface can illustrate how some plants reduce water loss. Small, white flowers appear in clusters and can be used to discuss pollination and flower anatomy. The tree produces small, round fruits that attract birds, providing opportunities to explore topics like seed dispersal and local wildlife interactions.

Tree Shape: Rounded or Vase
Foliage Type: Evergreen
Maximum Tree Height: 25 feet
Canopy Width: 15-25feet
Growth Rate: ~36in/year
Leaf Arrangement and Form: Alternate and Simple
Leaf Shape: Oblong
Leaf Color: Green
Fall Color: No
Flowers: Showy
Flower Color: White
Flower Time: Spring
Fruit Size and Color: Medium Yellow or Mostly Green Pome
Fruiting Time: Summer
Bark Color: Light Green
Bark Texture: Exfoliating and Smooth
Litter Type: Wet Fruit

Recommended Planting Area: 4′ to 7′
Water Use Rating: Medium
Sunset Climate Zone: 8 – 24
Soil Texture: Loam, Sand or Clay
Soil pH: Very Acidic to Very Alkaline
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Schoolyard Trees: Yes
Shade Tolerance: No

Root Damage Potential: Low
Potential health issues: None Known
Biogenic Emissions: Low
Wildlife Interactions: Attracts Bees and Birds
Disease and Pest Susceptibility: Fire Blight
Disease and Pest Resistance: Armillaria and Root Rot
Utility Friendly: Yes