Although inedible for humans, the fruits of bronze loquats are popular with birds and small mammals. The new foliage of this small tree is bronze in color and takes a long time to change to dark green, making the plant highly ornamental. It is also versatile as a feature tree for small gardens, as it can be grown against a support or planted in pots.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Bronze loquat, Eriobotrya deflexa, is an attractive small tree with unusual foliage. The toothed leaves emerge a glossy brown-red-green, and mature to dark green. In summer it bears dark pink flowers, followed by fuzzy fruit. It’s extremely ornamental and is perfect for small gardens. Grow Eriobotrya deflexa in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Don’t let it dry out and prune regularly to maintain its shape.
The Bronze loquat can be grown as a large mounding shrub to medium size evergreen tree, 25-30 ft. tall and as wide. It has large leaves, 8-10 in. long by 2-3 in. wide with coarsely serrated margins. It’s most distinctive characteristic is the colorful red-bronze new growth that occurs at the ends of branches in the early to mid-spring; these leaves mature to dark green during summer. Large clusters of creamy-white flowers are followed by small inedible fruit.
Bronze loquat is native to warm climates of southeast Asia and is appreciated as a relatively clean and attractive foliage plant. It is a good size for many residential and commercial spaces to provide shade and seasonal interest. It is sometimes grown as a large shrub and clipped as a formal hedge along walls and fences.
II. How to Grow and Care
Sunlight
Bronze loquat thrives best under full sunlight, which significantly enhances its growth, health, and flowering capabilities. While bronze loquat prefers continuous exposure to bright light for optimal development, it also exhibits a notable tolerance for partial sun. In such conditions, bronze loquat might experience slower growth and reduced flowering, but generally maintains good health. Outdoors, bronze loquat should be planted in locations with clear exposure to sunlight for most of the day. Deviations from these light conditions can lead to less vigorous growth and diminished vigor, affecting the overall aesthetics and health of the plant.
Temperature
Bronze loquat showcases notable resilience to temperature variations. Known to endure cold temperatures down to 0℃ (32℉) and heat up to 43℃ (109℉), bronze loquat adapts well to diverse climates. Its care involves monitoring for cold damage, such as leaf browning, and heat stress, indicated by wilting. During extreme cold, use frost blankets, and provide shade in excessive heat. This adaptability makes bronze loquat suitable for regions with variable weather, provided protective measures and vigilant care are taken during temperature extremes.
Watering
Originating from subtropical regions, bronze loquat thrives in environments with moderate humidity and has adapted to withstand brief periods of drought. Its water habits are balanced, neither requiring constant moisture nor thriving in arid conditions. Care for bronze loquat involves watering once every two weeks, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Typically grown outdoors due to its size and ornamental foliage, bronze loquat benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture during its active growing season.
Soil
Bronze loquat thrives in well-draining loam with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Naturally found in the subtropics, it prefers soil rich in organic matter. Use a mix of 40% garden soil, 30% compost, and 30% sand to replicate its native environment. Ensure good drainage by adding perlite or coarse sand. Avoid water-logging to prevent root rot. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release formula in spring and mid-summer. Regular soil testing helps maintain ideal conditions.
Fertilizing
Fertilize bronze loquat with balanced nutrition fertilizers, ensuring a blend of N-P-K (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) at a ratio ideal for fruiting plants. Apply quarterly, optimizing for seasons of active growth (spring/summer). Use manufacturer’s recommended quantity, avoiding over-fertilization to prevent root burn. Benefits include bolstered growth, improved fruit yield, and enhanced plant vitality. During dormancy (fall/winter), reduce fertilization to match slower growth. Apply granular fertilizers for extended nutrient release, and water soil before and after to aid absorption and protect roots. Safe practice necessitates wearing gloves and following instructions precisely.
Pruning
Characterized by its bronze leaves and compact growth, bronze loquat benefits from pruning in early to late winter. Begin by removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches to enhance air circulation and light penetration. Cut back overgrown shoots to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Regular pruning helps prevent legginess and promotes healthier foliage. Ensure sharp, clean tools are used to avoid infections. According to horticultural experts, timely pruning maximizes aesthetics and overall plant health.
Propagation
Originating from the Rosaceae family, bronze loquat is a plant known for its striking foliage and durable nature, ideal for ornamental use. To propagate bronze loquat, cuttings are a reliable method, and gardeners should select healthy, semi-hardwood stems. It is crucial to utilize a rooting hormone to encourage successful root development. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining medium, providing consistent moisture without oversaturation, and maintain them in a warm environment with indirect light. Patience is essential as bronze loquat may take time to establish robust roots before transplanting.
Transplanting
Transplant bronze loquat in the cusp of spring’s arrival, an opportune moment for root establishment. Choose well-drained sites with dappled sunlight. Remember, a gentle touch and regular watering post-transplant can ease bronze loquat’s transition.
III. Uses and Benefits
Bronze loquat can be espaliered, grown in patio containers, or used as a specimen. Although shrubby with a tight, compact, dense crown, it can easily be trained into a small tree form .
