Champagne
loquat(Eriobotrya japonica)
A classic California commercial and home-garden loquat introduced by C.P. Taft around 1908, prized for good fruit quality in USDA zone 9. Produces elongated, pear-shaped fruit with white to pale-yellow, juicy flesh.
Flavor Profile
Soft, juicy flesh that is mild and subacid to sweet, with a slightly astringent note; considered one of Taft's best introductions.
Visual Characteristics
Elongated, pear-shaped fruit with pale-yellow to deep-yellow, thick, tough skin and white to pale-yellow flesh; typically two seeds.
Growing Tips
Self-infertile in most references (benefits from a pollinizer, not reliably self-fertile as sometimes stated); matures mid- to late season and performs best in warmer zone 9 conditions.
Resistance Information
Disease Resistance
Studied for resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv. eriobotryae (loquat canker); resistance QTL identified in this cultivar. Not noted as particularly fire-blight resistant.
Where to Buy
Sourcing information coming soon. Check local nurseries and seed banks for availability.