Loquat ‘Nagasakiwase’ PLANT – Heirloom & Untreated – Eriobotrya japonica – Early Ripening, Sweet & Juicy Fruit
Bring the exceptional flavour of Japan’s finest loquat into your own garden with this heirloom, untreated Nagasakiwase Loquat plant (Eriobotrya japonica). Widely regarded as the best Japanese variety available, Nagasakiwase produces medium to large fruit with deep orange, sweet, and exceptionally juicy flesh – and a very high flesh‑to‑seed ratio, meaning more delicious fruit and less waste.
This is a fast‑growing, vigorous tree that will start fruiting within 2 to 3 years from planting – a significant advantage over many other fruit trees. The tree itself is an attractive evergreen with long, dark green foliage and fragrant spring flowers. It grows to a medium size of around 4 x 4 metres, but can be pruned comfortably to remain at 2 to 3 metres, making it suitable for both gardens and large pots. In subtropical regions like QLD, it produces two crops a year – the first in April/May and a second in August. It has medium to high frost tolerance, making it more resilient than many other fruit trees. In cooler areas, it can still perform well, though fruiting may be slightly later.
Do you need more space to grow food? Check out our fantastic extra-large grow bags here.
Uses:
Fresh Eating: Enjoy the sweet, juicy fruit straight from the tree. The flavour is a mix of plum and apricot – tart and sweet, with a pleasant aroma and a soft, juicy texture like an apricot.
Preserves & Puddings: The fruit is excellent for making jams, jellies, pies, tarts, and puddings.
Ornamental: With its attractive dark green foliage and fragrant flowers, the Nagasakiwase Loquat is a beautiful addition to any garden or patio.
Container Growing: Can be grown successfully in large pots or grow bags (35L+ recommended), making it accessible for balconies, courtyards, and smaller spaces.
Nutrients & Health Benefits:
Loquats are not only delicious but also packed with beneficial nutrients and bioactive compounds.
Rich in Antioxidants: Nagasakiwase loquats have been shown in scientific studies to contain high amounts of phenolic compounds – powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from oxidative stress. In fact, one study found that Nagasakiwase contained 28% phenolic compounds by ethanol extraction, the highest among the cultivars tested.
Vitamins & Minerals: Loquats are a good source of vitamin A (beta‑carotene), vitamin C, and B vitamins, as well as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Traditional Uses: In traditional medicine, loquat leaves have been used to relieve coughs, promote expectoration, and support respiratory health. The fruit itself is valued for its soothing and nourishing properties.
Supports Heart Health: The carotenoids and antioxidants in loquats may help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
Note: Always do your own research before using any plant medicinally or making significant dietary changes. The information provided is for educational purposes only.
Growing Conditions & Planting Tips:
Nagasakiwase Loquat is a hardy, adaptable tree that thrives in a range of climates.
Climate: Suitable for subtropical and warm temperate regions (QLD, NSW, VIC, SA). It has medium to high frost tolerance, making it more resilient than many other fruit trees. In cooler areas, it can still perform well, though fruiting may be slightly later.
Position: Prefers full sun for the best fruit production and flavour. It will tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer and less sweet fruit.
Soil: Requires well‑drained soil with plenty of organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5) is ideal.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during the first year and during flowering and fruiting. Moderate watering is sufficient once established.
Fertilising: Apply a balanced organic fertiliser in spring (once a year is generally sufficient). Avoid fertilising immediately after planting – wait at least one month.
Pruning: Prune to shape and encourage new growth. At the end of summer, trim branch tips by 2–3 cm, or prune to your desired shape. Pruning also helps keep the tree at a manageable height.
Thinning: Thinning the fruit will enhance fruit size and quality.
Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the tree (leaving 6–8 inches gap from the trunk) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pollination: Self‑fertile – you only need one tree to produce fruit.
Container growing: Can be grown in very large pots (35L+). Use premium potting mix and ensure good drainage. Water more frequently than trees planted in the ground.
Care After Receiving Your Plant:
Your Nagasakiwase Loquat plant has been grown with care. Follow these steps for a smooth transition:
Unpack immediately – Remove the plant from packaging. Check the soil; if dry, give it a light drink.
Rest & recover – Place the plant in a sheltered, shaded spot out of strong wind for 2–3 days to reduce transplant shock. Some wilting in transit is normal and the plant will revive quickly with care.
Slow sun introduction – Introduce to full sun gradually over 5–7 days to avoid leaf burn.
Transplant – Re‑pot into a larger container (at least 30–50 litres) or plant directly into the ground. Dig a hole twice the size of the current pot, loosen the root ball gently, and place the tree at the same depth it was in the pot.
Water in well – Give it a deep, thorough watering straight after planting. Water daily for the first year to help the tree establish.
Mulch – Apply a layer of mulch around the base (keeping it away from the trunk) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Wait before fertilising – Do not fertilise for at least one month after planting to avoid burning the roots.
What You Will Receive:
One healthy, young Nagasakiwase Loquat plant (not grafted), grown heirloom, untreated, and with love in my permaculture food forest (Pacific Haven, QLD). This vigorous, fast‑growing tree typically begins fruiting within 2 to 3 years. The provided images of the potted plants are an example only.
Shipping & Important Notes:
Dispatch: We usually send plants on Mondays to ensure they arrive fresh and before the weekend.
Shipping locations: Sending within Australia only, excluding Norfolk Island, NT, SA, TAS, and WA.
Pickup: Available by appointment from Pacific Haven, QLD.
Please Note: Do your own research before trying any new foods. Also refer to our full disclaimer in the footer of this page.
