Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.) is a subtropical evergreen fruit
tree indigenous to China. Records show it has been cultivated in China
for over 2000 years. From its beginning, loquat has spread to more than
30 countries around the world.
Grown in various regions of Asia, the Mediterranean and across the
Americas, loquats suit both temperate and subtropical areas, sharing the
same environmental conditions as citrus. Loquat is an increasingly
commercial crop in some Asian and European countries with a good amount
of international trade.
Recent research has focused on improving crop yields and quality. Over
100 different varieties have been developed to meet both growers' and
consumers' demands. These developments have contributed to a better
understanding of the crop environment, plant growth and physiology of
tree and fruit development with implications for both breeding and
cultivation.
This book is the first to provide a comprehensive coverage of the
history, physiology, culture and marketing of loquat throughout the
world.