In this article, we will compare loquats and kumquats so you can understand both fruits better. We will explain how they look, how they taste, and the plants they grow on. Plus, we’ll explain the nutritional benefits of both fruits so you can choose which one — or both — you would like to add into your diet.
Comparing Loquats and Kumquats
Key Differences Between Loquats and Kumquats
There are many differences between loquats and kumquats. For example, loquats require much less sun and attention than the more high-maintenance kumquat. Loquats cannot withstand frigid temperatures, but kumquats can. Let’s review some of the other differences between these two fruits now.
Classification
The loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) or Japanese plum belongs to the Rosaceae family, which includes fruits such as nectarines, pears, apples, and peaches. There are over 800 different varieties of loquat. The classification of kumquats is far less straightforward. In the past, kumquats were classified as Fortunella or Citrus, sensu lato. In fact, some research material still (erroneously) classifies kumquats as Fortunella. Today, botanists classify kumquats as Citrus hindsii, C. margarita, and C. crassifolia. You will also find a fourth variety, They have been assigned to C. japonica. Today, they are classified as Citrus hindsii, C. margarita, and C. crassifolia. A fourth variety, x japonica, which is a hybrid of C. margarita and C. crassifolia. Kumquats belong to the Rutaceae family and are considered to be cold-hardy citrus plants.
Description
In terms of size, kumquats are much smaller than loquats, about the size of a small orange or large olive. Kumquat trees also tend to be about ⅓ of the size of loquat trees. Loquats develop round, pear-shaped, or oval fruit in a variety of colors (depending on the cultivar). While kumquats are also oval or round, they’re considerably smaller than loquats and comes only in shades of orange.
Uses
Both fruits are consumed on their own, in jelly or marmalade, or in candy. Loquats are filled with antioxidants like beta carotene that help protect the body from disease. Beta carotene can help treat infection, allergies, diabetes, and different cancers because of its ability to help reduce inflammation in the body. Loquats are also high in vitamin A. Kumquats are also full of antioxidants as well as fiber and vitamins C and A. Consuming these nutrients can aid digestion and strengthen the immune system.
Taste
Loquats have different flavors depending on their subspecies. Some taste like a tangerine, an apricot, a pear, or even a mango. In general, the best way to describe them is a tropical fruit with a hint of citrus. Kumquats have a slightly sweet taste combined with a sour or tangy flavor, depending on the variety. You can safely eat both skins of both fruits. They also both have seeds inside their fruit, which when consumed in large amounts can lead to symptoms such as nausea and shortness of breath. Because of this, you should remove the seeds before consumption.
Origin
Loquats have been produced for over a thousand years in Japan and in colder parts of China. Lately, they have been grown for decorative purposes in California and other coastal plain areas. Originating in China, the kumquat was later cultivated in Japan, too, much like the loquat. Today, it is also grown in warm climates in the United States like Florida, California, or Texas as well as in South America and Puerto Rico.
Growth Tips
Loquats thrive in different climates and soils while the kumquat grows best in slightly acidic soil. What’s key for any citrus plant is hydration, especially the first few years of a plant’s life. Keep the roots moist. Applying mulch over its roots helps the plant to maintain moisture without developing root rot. Kumquats can benefit from liquid fertilizer. To avoid burning your plant, since it requires so much direct sunlight, water it well before and after using any fertilizer.
Loquats vs. Kumquats: Fun Facts
Loquats were first mentioned in the poems of Li Bai, a Chinese poet who was a member of a group of Chinese scholars known as the Eight Immortals of the Wine Cup. Kumquats were first introduced to Europe in the mid-1800s by Robert Fortune, a collector for the London Horticultural Society. Soon after, they were brought to North America where they grow in warm regions today.
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