Will The Loquat Fruit Make It?

[BEZARK]

Nearly all here are planted as ornamentals.

But the fruit is good.

The fruiting is sensitive to cold winters.

But that is usually low lows.

We will see if low highs are a problem.

[Lobo]

AI Overview

Loquats aren't typically sold in regular grocery stores because they are extremely delicate, bruise easily, have a very short shelf life, and are labor-intensive to harvest, making large-scale commercial distribution uneconomical and difficult. They often turn brown or decay quickly after picking, and the large seeds take up significant space, adding to handling challenges, though you might find them at local farmers' markets or specialty ethnic stores.

Key reasons for their rarity in stores:

• Fragility & Bruising: 

  The skin and flesh are delicate and bruise almost immediately, making them look unappealing for standard retail display.
• Short Shelf Life: 

  They spoil rapidly, sometimes within a few days of ripening, unlike sturdier fruits that can withstand shipping.
• Labor-Intensive Harvesting: 

  Picking them requires a gentle touch, and the fruit is often overabundant on trees, making commercial picking costly.
• High Seed-to-Flesh Ratio: 

  A significant portion of the fruit's weight is large seeds, reducing the marketable pulp.
• Low Consumer Awareness: 

  Many people aren't familiar with loquats or how to use them, reducing demand, notes The Splendid Table.

Where to find them:

• Local Farmers' Markets: Look for local growers who can offer them fresh from their trees.
• Ethnic Markets: Specialty Asian, Mediterranean, or Middle Eastern markets might carry them.
• Your Own Backyard: They grow well in many mild climates and are often found on street trees or in home gardens.

[BEZARK]

I eat them straight off the trees.

But I’m told they make nice jam.

[Lobo]

I don't recall ever eating one, but I do love most fruits. What more common fruit is it closest to in flavor?

There's a large international supermarket near me that seems to have every fruit, vegetable and fish/seafood in the world. I'll have to look for it next time I'm there.