The Japan medlar, or Eriobotrya japonica, is a fruit tree native to East Asia. Its name is pronounced /dʒəˈpæn ˈmɛdlər/ with the stress on the second syllable of both words. The word "Japan" refers to the tree's origin, while "medlar" comes from the fruit's similarity to the European medlar. The spelling of "medlar" is derived from Old French "medlre" and Middle English "medle". Despite its name, the fruit of the Japan medlar is not actually a medlar, but rather a type of pome fruit.
The Japan medlar, scientifically known as Eriobotrya japonica, is a fruit-bearing plant and small deciduous tree native to East Asia, particularly Japan, China, and the Mediterranean region. Also called the loquat or Japanese plum, it belongs to the family Rosaceae. The tree typically grows up to 10 meters in height, featuring elongated and glossy dark green leaves with a slightly serrated edge.
The Japan medlar produces small, round or pear-shaped fruits that are yellow to orange in color when fully ripe. These fruits are known for their sweet and tangy flavor, reminiscent of a combination of apricots and oranges. The fruits typically measure around 2-5 centimeters in diameter and are covered in downy hairs. They contain multiple dark brown seeds within. This fruit is highly valued for its refreshing taste and its nutritional properties.
Furthermore, the Japan medlar is cultivated for both commercial and ornamental purposes. Its fruits are commonly consumed fresh or used in the preparation of various culinary creations, such as jams, jellies, pies, and desserts. In addition, this tree is appreciated for its attractive foliage and delicate white flowers, making it a popular choice for landscaping and ornamental gardens. The Japan medlar is known for its ability to thrive in subtropical climates and has been introduced to various regions around the world.
The term "Japan medlar" is a compound term that combines two words, "Japan" and "medlar". Here is the etymology of each word:
1. Japan: The word "Japan" originated from the Malay word "Jepang" which was derived from the Chinese word "Rìběn" or "Riben". This Chinese word referred to Japan, and it eventually spread to other languages, such as Portuguese ("Japão") and Dutch ("Japan"). The origin of the Chinese word "Rìběn" is uncertain, possibly from a local name for Japan.
2. Medlar: The word "medlar" has its roots in Old English, where it was known as "medu-æppel" or "medo-æppel". The term "medu" means "mead" or "honey wine", and "æppel" means "apple".