A subtropical tree growing up to seven metres tall.  It produces a yellow plumb sized fruit in Spring usually the first fruit of the season and makes an impressive feature tree in any garden.

Climate
Being a subtropical plant Loquats require warm Summers and mild Winters at the very least.   So they are somewhat marginal for  the Ballarat district. Young Loquat trees are frost sensitive. However once they are big enough frost will only cause minor damage.

Planting
Loquats should be planted in a sunny sheltered position and protected from frost during the first year or two. They need soil with good drainage to thrive.  Plant as for Citrus trees.

Post Planting Care.
Water the tree regularly for at least six weeks after planting and stake it for the first couple of years.

Fruit
The fruit ripen in Spring and are eaten fresh or made into jam.  The flavour is difficult to describe, having a sort of tangy refreshing tropical fruit punch taste.