At first glance, this small golden-orange fruit may look like a miniature apricot or even a strange variety of plum. But if you look closely at its smooth yellow-orange skin, soft flesh, and large brown seeds in the center, you may be looking at a loquat.

Loquats are an underrated fruit that many people have never tried. They are small, oval-shaped fruits with a naturally sweet and slightly tangy flavor. Once peeled or opened, the fruit reveals juicy golden flesh surrounding several large, glossy brown seeds.

The fruit shown in the image appears to be a loquat, scientifically known as Eriobotrya japonica. Despite its name, the loquat originated in southeastern China and has since become popular in many parts of Asia, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and other warm regions.

So what exactly is a loquat, what does it taste like, and why do people enjoy eating it?

What Is a Loquat?

The loquat is a member of the Rosaceae family, which makes it related to familiar fruits such as apples, pears, peaches, plums, apricots, cherries, and strawberries.

It grows on an evergreen tree that can reach several meters in height. Unlike many common fruit trees that produce fruit during the summer, loquat trees can produce their fruit during cooler parts of the year in suitable climates.

The fruit itself is usually oval or slightly rounded.

Depending on the variety and ripeness, the skin can range from:

• Pale yellow

• Golden yellow

• Yellow-orange

• Deep orange

The flesh is usually juicy and soft when ripe.

Inside, however, you'll find something very noticeable: large brown seeds.

These seeds can take up a surprisingly large portion of the fruit.

What Does a Loquat Taste Like?

The flavor is one of the reasons loquats have such a dedicated following.

A ripe loquat typically tastes sweet, juicy, mildly tangy, and refreshing.

Some people compare the flavor to a combination of several familiar fruits.

You may notice hints reminiscent of:

Apricot + peach + citrus + apple

The exact flavor depends on the variety and ripeness.

A perfectly ripe loquat should generally have a pleasant aroma and soft but not mushy flesh.

If the fruit is underripe, it may taste more acidic and slightly tart.

As it ripens, the sweetness becomes more noticeable.

This makes loquats especially enjoyable when eaten fresh.

How Do You Eat a Loquat?

Eating a loquat is relatively simple.

First, wash the fruit thoroughly.

Then you can cut or tear it open and remove the large seeds.

The skin is technically edible, although some people prefer to peel it because of its texture.

The typical process is:

Wash → cut open → remove seeds → eat the flesh.

The seeds should not be eaten.

This is particularly important because loquat seeds contain cyanogenic compounds, which can release cyanide when the seeds are crushed or metabolized.

That doesn't mean you need to be afraid of the fruit itself.

The edible flesh is the part normally consumed.

Simply discard the seeds rather than chewing or grinding them.

Why Are the Seeds So Large?

One of the first things people notice about loquats is how large the seeds are compared with the fruit.

Instead of having tiny seeds like many berries, a loquat can contain several relatively large, smooth, brown seeds.

Depending on the variety, you may find anywhere from one to several seeds.

This means that a portion of the fruit's interior is occupied by seeds rather than edible flesh.

Some cultivated varieties have been developed to produce fewer or smaller seeds, making them more convenient to eat.

Still, the large seeds are one of the easiest ways to recognize a loquat once you've opened one.

Are Loquats Nutritious?

Yes.

Like many fruits, loquats can be part of a balanced diet.

They provide water, natural carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamin A-related carotenoids, vitamin C, potassium, and various plant compounds.

The exact nutritional composition varies depending on the variety, ripeness, and serving size.

Rather than thinking of loquats as a "superfood," it's more useful to view them as one nutritious option among many different fruits.

Eating a variety of fruits gives your body access to a broader range of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and plant compounds.

Loquats Provide Dietary Fiber

One benefit of eating whole loquats is their fiber content.

Dietary fiber plays an important role in digestive health and can help support regular bowel movements.

Fiber can also contribute to feelings of fullness and support a healthy gut environment.

However, loquats shouldn't be viewed as a cure for constipation.

If your diet is low in fiber, gradually increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains is generally more useful than relying on one particular fruit.

And when increasing fiber, adequate fluid intake is important as well.

A Source of Vitamin C

Loquats also provide vitamin C.

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that contributes to:

• Normal immune function

• Collagen production

• Wound healing

• Iron absorption

• Protection of cells from oxidative stress

The amount of vitamin C in a serving of loquat isn't enough to replace all other sources of the vitamin, but it contributes to your overall daily intake.

Eating a mixture of fruits and vegetables is the easiest way to obtain a wide range of nutrients.

Loquats Contain Carotenoids

The beautiful golden-orange color of ripe loquat flesh isn't just attractive.

It comes partly from naturally occurring pigments called carotenoids.

Some carotenoids can be converted by the body into vitamin A.

Vitamin A is important for normal:

• Vision

• Immune function

• Skin health

• Cell growth

The amount of carotenoids varies considerably among loquat varieties, with some orange-fleshed cultivars containing more than others.

This is another reason that eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can be beneficial.

What About Heart Health?

Loquats can fit comfortably into a heart-conscious diet.

They provide fiber and potassium while being naturally low in fat.

Potassium is an essential mineral involved in fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction, and adequate potassium intake is generally associated with healthy blood pressure regulation.

However, eating loquats alone cannot prevent heart disease.

Cardiovascular health depends on many factors, including:

• Overall diet

• Physical activity

• Blood pressure

• Cholesterol

• Smoking

• Sleep

• Body weight

• Genetics

• Existing medical conditions

Think of loquats as one small piece of the bigger picture.

Can Loquats Help With Weight Management?

Loquats can be a useful snack for people who want to eat more whole fruits.

They contain water and fiber and can satisfy a desire for something sweet without being a highly processed dessert.

Instead of reaching for candy, cookies, or sugary drinks, a serving of fresh fruit can be a more nutrient-dense choice.

But it's important not to believe claims that loquats "burn fat."

No single fruit can specifically melt belly fat.

Weight management comes down to overall energy balance, eating patterns, physical activity, sleep, and other individual factors.

Can People With Diabetes Eat Loquats?

People with diabetes don't necessarily need to avoid loquats.

Like other fruits, loquats contain naturally occurring carbohydrates and sugars.

However, they also provide fiber and water.

For someone managing blood glucose, the important factors include portion size, total carbohydrate intake, and what the fruit is eaten with.

Whole fruit is generally preferable to sweetened loquat juice or desserts made with large amounts of added sugar.

If you monitor your blood glucose, your own response can also provide useful information when incorporated into your usual meal plan.

What About Loquat Tea?

Loquat leaves are traditionally used in some cultures to make tea.

You may also see loquat leaf products marketed online for various health purposes.

This is where it's important to separate traditional use from proven medical treatment.

Research has investigated compounds found in loquat leaves, but that does not mean drinking loquat leaf tea can cure diabetes, cancer, infections, or other serious diseases.

The fruit and the leaves are not interchangeable.

If you're taking medication or considering concentrated loquat leaf extracts or supplements, it's sensible to discuss them with a healthcare professional.

Can You Eat the Loquat Skin?

For most people, yes.

The skin of a properly washed loquat is edible.

Some people prefer to remove it because they don't like the texture, while others eat the fruit whole after removing the seeds.

If you eat the skin, wash the fruit thoroughly under running water.

There's no need to use soap or household cleaning products on fruit.

If the skin is damaged, moldy, or visibly spoiled, discard the fruit rather than simply ignoring the affected area.

The Seeds Are a Different Story

This is probably the most important thing to remember when eating loquats.

Don't eat the seeds.

Loquat seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can potentially release cyanide when broken down.

The amount present and the actual risk from accidental exposure can vary, but there is no reason to intentionally consume the seeds.

Don't chew them.

Don't grind them into smoothies.

Don't use them as a food ingredient.

Simply remove and discard them.

The edible fruit itself is the part you want.

Fresh Loquats vs. Processed Loquat Products

Fresh loquats are probably the simplest way to enjoy the fruit.

But loquats can also be used to make:

• Jams

• Jellies

• Syrups

• Desserts

• Sauces

• Pies

• Preserves

• Fruit drinks

The nutritional profile can change significantly once sugar is added.

For example, fresh loquat is very different from a loquat jam containing a substantial amount of added sugar.

If you're trying to maximize the nutritional value of the fruit, fresh or minimally processed loquat is generally the simplest choice.

How Do You Know When a Loquat Is Ripe?

Choosing the right fruit can make a huge difference.

A ripe loquat should generally have a pleasant fruity aroma and feel slightly soft when gently pressed.

Depending on the variety, ripe fruit may have a golden-yellow to orange color.

Avoid fruit with:

• Extensive bruising

• Mold

• Significant discoloration

• Fermented or unpleasant odors

• Very soft, leaking areas

An underripe loquat can be firmer and more acidic.

A ripe one is usually much sweeter and juicier.

Why Don't More People Know About Loquats?

Despite their delicious flavor, loquats aren't as widely recognized in some countries as apples, oranges, peaches, or bananas.

There are several reasons.

First, loquats have a relatively short season in many regions.

Second, the large seeds make them less convenient than some other fruits.

Third, they're often more common in specific geographic areas and may not be widely available in ordinary supermarkets.

But if you encounter them at a farmers' market or specialty grocery store, they're worth trying.

Loquat vs. Apricot: Are They the Same?

No.

This is a common confusion.

Loquats and apricots may look similar because both can have yellow-orange skin and soft orange flesh.

But they belong to different species.

Loquat: Eriobotrya japonica

Apricot: Prunus armeniaca

They also grow under different seasonal conditions and have different textures and flavors.

Once you cut a loquat open, the large glossy seeds make the difference particularly obvious.

Where Do Loquats Grow?

Loquats originated in southeastern China and have been cultivated for centuries.

Today, they are grown in many warm and subtropical regions around the world.

They can be found in parts of:

• China

• Japan

• India

• Spain

• Italy

• Turkey

• Greece

• The Middle East

• California

• Other regions with suitable climates

The trees are evergreen and can produce fragrant flowers before developing clusters of fruit.

An Interesting Fact About the Loquat Tree

The loquat tree isn't only valued for its fruit.

It is also appreciated as an ornamental tree because of its large, dark-green leaves.

The leaves can be quite striking, with a leathery texture and prominent veins.

In suitable climates, loquat trees can become attractive additions to gardens and landscapes while also producing edible fruit.

How Can You Enjoy Loquats?

Fresh loquats are delicious on their own, but there are plenty of ways to use them.

Try them:

In a Fruit Salad

Combine sliced loquats with strawberries, oranges, grapes, or apples.

With Yogurt

Add chopped loquat to plain Greek yogurt for a naturally sweet breakfast.

In a Smoothie

Remove the seeds first, then blend the flesh with yogurt, milk, or another fruit.

In a Salad

Their sweet-tart flavor can work surprisingly well with leafy greens, nuts, and a light dressing.

As a Dessert

Fresh loquat can be served chilled with a little yogurt or another simple topping.

The important part is always the same:

Remove the seeds before eating or blending.

The Bottom Line

So, what fruit is this?

The fruit in the image appears to be a loquat, a small golden-orange fruit known for its juicy flesh, sweet-tart flavor, and unusually large brown seeds.

Loquats are related to apples, pears, peaches, and other members of the rose family. They provide useful nutrients including fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and carotenoid compounds, making them a nutritious addition to a varied diet.

They can be eaten fresh, added to salads and smoothies, or turned into jams and desserts.

But there is one detail you shouldn't forget:

Enjoy the fruit, but remove and discard the seeds.

If you've never tasted a loquat before, its flavor may be a pleasant surprise. It sits somewhere between familiar stone fruits and citrusy sweetness, with a juicy texture that makes it particularly refreshing when ripe.

So the next time you see these little golden fruits at a market, you'll know exactly what you're looking at.

It's a loquat—and it's definitely a fruit worth getting to know.