Finding Loquat Seeds: Search Strategies and Seed Exchanges

Locating Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) Seeds

A reader wants loquat seeds after seeing a previous query. Nurseries rarely carry them; seed sources are niche.

Search Tactics

1. Search engines: "loquat seeds for sale", "loquat seed exchange", "Eriobotrya japonica seeds".
2. Seed exchange sites:
   • Seed Savers Exchange
   • GardenWeb/Forums (seed trading threads)
   • Facebook groups: "Rare Fruit Seed Swap", "Tropical Fruit Growers"
3. Specialty nurseries (often sell plants, not seeds):
   • Logee's, Top Tropicals, Sow Exotic, Fruitwood Nursery

Growing from Seed

• Fresh seeds germinate best (viability drops fast).
• Clean pulp, plant immediately in moist peat/perlite.
• Warm (75–85°F), humid conditions; 3–6 weeks to germinate.
• Seedlings vary—fruiting in 3–8 years; graft for known cultivars.

Climate & Soil Needs

• Zones 8–11 (subtropical).
• Well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
• Full sun; drought-tolerant once established.
• Self-fertile but cross-pollination improves yield.

If You Can't Find Seeds

• Buy a grafted tree – faster, true-to-type fruit.
• Ask local rare fruit growers for cuttings/seeds.
• Check university extensions (UC Riverside, UF/IFAS) for germplasm.

Bottom Line

Search persistently across seed exchanges and forums. Fresh seeds from ripe fruit are best. Consider a grafted tree for reliable, sooner fruit.