Description

💧 Watering
Water regularly during the first year after planting (1–2 times per week in summer).
Once established, water once a week in summer; rainfall is usually sufficient in winter.
In pots, water when the top soil begins to dry.

☀️ Sunlight
Prefers full sun to light partial shade.
Best fruiting and flowering occur in full sun.
Ideal for gardens, patios, and large containers in Malta.

🍃 Foliage / 🌸 Flowering & 🍊 Fruiting
Large, leathery dark green evergreen leaves.
Produces fragrant white flowers in autumn–early winter.
Fruits ripen in spring, producing sweet, juicy loquats.

🪴 Potting Mix / Soil
Prefers fertile, well-draining soil.
Tolerates slightly alkaline soils common in Malta.
In pots, use rich outdoor potting compost with good drainage.

🌿 Fertilizer
Feed once in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
In pots, apply a second light feeding in early summer.

🚫🐕🐈 Pet Safety
⚠️ Fruits are safe, but seeds and leaves are toxic to cats and dogs if ingested (contain cyanogenic compounds).
Avoid allowing pets to chew seeds or foliage.

🌬️ Air Purifying ✅
Provides moderate air-purifying benefits outdoors, improving local air quality and oxygen levels.

🌿 Additional Notes
Very well adapted to Malta’s Mediterranean climate.
Wind tolerant once established.
Prune lightly after fruiting to maintain shape and size.
Excellent as a feature tree, fruit tree, or shade plant.