Eriobotrya japonica
Orangey-yellow and small, this fruit has an elongated shape and velvety skin, like peaches. The delicate, sweet and juicy pulp is an invitation to eat it fresh. But the fruit can also be used in jellies, jams, compotes and liqueurs. The tree is native to China, but it was the Japanese who perfected the plant and spread the seeds to other regions. In Brazil, loquat trees can be found in many backyards. As for commercial production, the city of Mogi das Cruzes, in São Paulo state, stands out as the top domestic producer. The best season runs from March to September.
