21 



12. LOQUAT 



Eriobotrya japonica 



The plumlike loquat is usally eaten raw, but may be cooked. 

 Before cooking, the seeds should be removed because they impart 

 a bitter taste. This tree grows in mountainous regions. Its 

 elongated leaves are evergreen, its flowers are white and its fruits 

 pale yellow and somewhat downy. The firm mealy flesh of the 

 fruit ranges from white to deep orange and has a flavor that 

 distinctly suggests cherry. The fruits are welcomed by persons 

 who dislike the monotonous sweetness 6i most tropical fruits. 

 Other names are nispero japones and nispero. 



