Loquat

The loquat is the fruit of the Japanese medlar tree, which grows in hot countries.

It is a fleshy fruit of average size, 3 to 7 cm long, generally oval, with a smooth yellow skin that turns more orange when ripe.

The flesh is very juicy and fresh, with a slightly acidulous flavour and a colour that varies from white to orange.

It contains kernels, which are in fact quite large seeds, usually 4 or 5, sometimes less if some of the ovules abort.

It is a fragile fruit that is difficult to transport. It needs to be picked very ripe, otherwise it is too acid.

It may be eaten as it is or in a fruit salad or it may be used for making cakes and jams.

Loquat