Loquat ‘Nagasakiwase’ SEEDS – Heirloom & Untreated – Eriobotrya japonica – Early Ripening, Sweet & Juicy Fruit #3
Grow your own exceptional Japanese loquat tree with these heirloom, untreated Nagasakiwase Loquat seeds (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 3 to 4 years from seed, depending on soil and growing conditions. 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 often produces two crops a year – the first in April/May and a second in August.
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 has been described as similar to apples – tart and sweet with a pleasant aroma – but with a soft, juicy texture like an apricot.
Preserves & Puddings: The fruit is excellent for making jams, jellies, pies, tarts, and puddings.
Loquat Leaf Tea: The leaves can be harvested, dehydrated, and used for tea. I usually blend them with other leaves and flowers from the food forest and enjoy it as an everyday healthy and delicious tea and as an immune booster.
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 (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. Research shows that loquat extracts contain many antioxidants, and different extracts exhibit bioactivity capable of counteracting inflammation, diabetes, cancer, bacterial infection, aging, pain, allergy, and other health issues.
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 & Sowing Tips:
Loquats are easy to grow from seed, though patience is required. Follow these steps for the best results:
Prepare seeds: Loquat seeds germinate best when fresh. If not planting immediately, wrap seeds in a damp paper towel and store in a cool place to prevent drying out. Soaking seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing will help speed up the germination process.
Start in trays or pots: Use a well‑draining potting mix – a soilless mix with peat moss (or coconut fibre), perlite, and pine bark works well. Plant seeds about 2–3 cm deep, placing them horizontally.
Warmth & light: Place the pot in a bright, warm area with temperatures consistently above 21°C. The warmer the conditions, the faster the germination – seeds typically sprout within 2–4 weeks.
Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Transplanting: When seedlings reach about 15–18 cm tall, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Sun & position: Loquats thrive in full sun – at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily – for optimal fruit production. They tolerate partial shade but produce better fruit in full sun.
Soil: Most soils are suitable except those that are highly alkaline. Good growing conditions produce the best fruit and tree growth.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the first year. Established trees are drought‑tolerant but produce better fruit with regular watering.
Climate: Loquats are subtropical fruit trees and grow best in citrus‑producing areas. They can tolerate light frost but sustained freezes may damage blooms and fruit. In cooler areas, protect young trees from frost.
Spacing: Allow plenty of room – a mature loquat tree can reach 3.5–4.5 metres tall and wide. Space trees at least 3.5–6 metres away from other trees or structures.
Fruiting: Trees grown from seed typically bear fruit within 3-4 years, depending on soil and growing conditions.
Seed Details:
Price: For 5 seeds, naturally grown in my permaculture food forest in Pacific Haven, QLD Australia.
Quality: Heirloom, untreated, open‑pollinated.
Shipping & Important Notes:
Sending to: QLD, NSW, SA, and Victoria only (within Australia).
Pickup: Available by appointment from Pacific Haven, QLD.
Please Note: Loquat seeds (pits) are inedible – only the fruit flesh should be consumed. Do your own research before trying any new foods. Also refer to our full disclaimer in the footer of this page.
