(Manilkara zapota)
The loquat, also known as small sapote, chicozapote, or sapodilla, is a tropical fruit tree native to Mesoamerica and widely cultivated in Latin America, the Caribbean, and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Sapotaceae family and is prized both for its exquisite fruit and for its durable wood and sap, which was historically used to produce natural chewing gum.
This evergreen tree can reach 10 to 25 meters in height, with a dense canopy and glossy, oval, green leaves. The flowers are small, white, and bell-shaped, and appear year-round in favorable climates.
The Fruit
The loquat fruit is round or oval, with a velvety brown skin. Its pulp is soft, juicy, and sweet, orange-brown in color, with a flavor reminiscent of a mix of brown sugar and pear. It contains 1 to 5 shiny black seeds inside. Uses:
- Culinary: Consumed fresh or in juices, desserts, jams, ice cream, and compotes.
- Nutritional: Rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Medicinal (traditional): Used to relieve digestive problems, coughs, and diarrhea.
Additional Uses and Ecological Value
- Wood: Very hard and durable, used in fine carpentry and construction.
- Sap (latex): Original source of natural chewing gum.
- Landscaping: Excellent ornamental tree due to its shape, foliage, and durability.
This tree combines flavor, history, and ecological value. Ideal for orchards, tropical gardens, and sustainable agroforestry projects.
