Loquat, Japanese Plum

You’ve probably never heard about this fruits, the Loquat. A loquat is called “Biwa” in Japanese. Also In Mandarin Chinese, the name is “pipa.” This is a very sweet high-quality fruit. This is produced in Nagasaki prefecture, Chiba Prefecture, Ehime prefecture and so on. In the time of Spring to early summer, you can enjoy fresh “Loquat.”

This unique fruit originated in the wild, evergreen rainforests of Southeastern China, from where it spread all across the world including Japan. Some of the common names of loquat include Japanese plum, Japanese medlar, Maltese plum, etc.

This time around, we get it from Nagasaki. Loquat is the cultivation of environmentally-friendly organic fertilizer core is excellent eating quality.
Loquat fruits begin appearing in the trees by the end of winter season. Mature fruits can be ready to harvest by June in Japan; however, their harvesting season may vary from region to region. The fruits are oval to pear in shape, appear in bunches of 5-20, and measure about 3 cm in width and 3-5 cm in length.

When they Ripe:

A light squeeze can determine the ripeness of the Loquat. The Loquat is at its sweetest when soft and orange without blemishes. Smell is one of the most reliable ways to gauge a fruit’s ripeness. When ripe, they have a sweet aroma

How to choose:

When choosing at our store, look for Loquat featuring a bright orange color with a smooth surface and a mild, sweet aroma. They should be devoid of any wrinkles, cuts, and patches on the skin. Fruits with spots and bruises tend to spoil quickly.

Nutrition

Great Source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin E, Calcium, Copper, Magnesium and Zinc.

Health Benefits

In Japan, Loquat leaves are dried to make a mild beverage known as loquat cha by brewing them using the traditional Japanese Senjiru Method. Loquat cha is thought to beautify and heal inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema as well as relieving chronic respiratory conditions such as bronchitis.

How to Select & Store

In the store, buy fresh ripe fruits featuring bright yellow color; smooth surface and impart mild yet sweet aroma. They should be devoid of any wrinkles, cuts, and patches on the skin. Avoid any overtly soften fruits with spots as they tend to perish early.

Loquats keep well for up to two weeks in the fruit/vegetable compartment of the home refrigerator.