Wild Loquat (Uapaca kirkiana)

Family: Phyllanthaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Wild Loquat or Uapaca kirkland is a tropical small tree about 5-12 m tall with a rounded crown and dark gray, rough bark. It can be evergreen or semi-deciduous. The branches are multiple and spreading and the bole is short and stout. The leaves are leathery, oval, and scattered or clustered at terminal branches. The flowers are greenish-yellow. The fruits are round and rusty-yellow.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet, it has a delicious flavour. — Fruit - raw or cooked.; Fleshy and sweet, it has a delicious flavour.; The fruit is commonly eaten fresh and is highly regarded.; It can also be used for brewing a very pleasant wine or for making cakes that are fried and eaten.

Habitat & North American Range

Lowland forest, secondary miombo woodland such as clearing and gaps, and open woodland. Grows in well-drained escarpments, with infertile sand or gravel soils of acidic reaction. (Zone 10)