Eriobotrya japonica

The loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) is a handsome subtropical shrub or small tree with thick, leathery, dark green leaves with serrated edges that grows well in coastal BC. It is often grown as an ornamental looking somewhat like a tree-like Rhododendron until you get up close. Loquats can also produce delicious, deep yellow to light orange fruit. One problem is that the fragrant flowers bloom in the winter. There are few pollinators at this time of year and a cold snap could affect flowering or fruit set. To enhance your chances of getting fruit, plant in a sunny, protected location, encourage pollinating Anna’s hummingbirds to spend the winter in your garden, and get out there with a paintbrush to do some pollinating of your own. Loquats can be partially self-fertile but the presence of two clones will enhance fruit set. Photo: Wikipedia.