Bronze Loquat

Bronze loquat (*Eriobotrya deflexa*) is an evergreen tree with a rounded crown and glossy leaves that emerge bronze with reddish highlights. Showy white flower clusters open in spring, followed by small green-yellow fruit that is often sparse and can attract birds. Mature trees typically reach 15–25 feet tall and wide, so allow room for a broad crown or train it as a screen. ## Landscape Use Use it as a specimen, hedge, or screen where its foliage and spring flowers can be seen. The [California State University Stanislaus profile](https://www.csustan.edu/campus-tree-story-map/bronze-loquat-eriobotrya-deflexa) gives a typical 15–25 foot height and width and lists USDA zones 9–10. ## Growing Conditions Plant in full sun to light shade and moist, well-drained soil. The [Washington Park Arboretum profile](https://botanicgardens.uw.edu/about/blog/2022/12/08/december-plant-profile-bronze-loquat/) notes the spring flowers, small inedible fruit, and preference for moist, well-drained soil. ## Maintenance Prune as needed to keep the crown compact or train the tree to a chosen form. The Arboretum notes that drooping branches may need pruning to encourage stronger growth.