Loquat trees, which generously offer us their fleshy, juicy, tart or sweet and large-stoned fruits, considered to be the harbingers of spring and summer fruits, are from the Rosaceae family, starting from March to June. Native to Japan, China and India, loquats are classified into two main groups, of Chinese and Japanese origin.
The fruit of the Chinese group tree is large, pear-shaped, dark orange with firm flesh and ripens late. The fruits of the Japanese group, which ripen earlier, are pale yellow, smaller and have soft whitish flesh.
Loquat trees can grow up to 5-10 m. Their annual branches are covered with hairs and have a brittle texture. As the branches age, the hairs fall out and their structure hardens. The large leaves, which are 12-30 cm long and 5-8 cm wide, have a dark green upper surface and an ash-colored lower surface, with raised veins and hair. This evergreen tree is also adopted as an ornamental plant in some places due to its beautiful leaves and showy structure.
Loquat trees start to bloom in late October and November and remain in bloom almost throughout the winter. The cream and white flowers in compound clusters are fragrant and rich in nectar. For this reason, they attract aunts. The flowers, which mature towards spring, bear fruit in clusters.
Loquat trees usually start bearing fruit 2-3 years after grafting. They bear fruit at their highest yield until they are 23-25 years old. Although their economic life ends after they are 30 years old, the trees can live for up to 60 years. The wood of these trees is considered acceptable for making musical instruments.
NUTRITIONAL VALUES
The loquat fruit contains high levels of vitamin A. The color of its flesh and peel indicates that the fruit is rich in carotene, a source of vitamin A. It is also rich in vitamins B and C, minerals such as phosphorus, potassium and calcium, and sugar.
BENEFITS TO OUR HEALTH
As we explained above, loquat fruit contains very valuable nutrients. In addition;
The leaves of the tree contain tannin and are astringent: To provide this medicinal effect, an infusion is prepared by pouring boiling water over the fresh leaves of the tree or the dried leaves in an airy place away from sunlight and letting it brew for 10-15 minutes. In case of diarrhea, 2-3 glasses of this infusion, which is safe and effective, can be drunk per day.
