Eriobotrya japonica

The loquat, Eriobotrya japonica, is a wonderful tree, ideally suited to small gardens. The foliage is particularly distinctive, with large, evergreen leaves borne in spurts of fresh green and a dusty coating that gradually sloughs off as the leaves age.

In warmer climes, such as the Mediterranean, it's grown for the tasty spring fruits, loquats, which look similar to apricots and have delicious flavour somewhere between peach and mango. Getting it to fruit in the UK is trickier as the perfumed (and pollinator friendly) flowers that appear in autumn in winter are easily damaged by frosts. It's a beautiful addition nonetheless, and the leaves have been observed to grow larger in the UK than elsewhere, providing a more dramatic display.

For best results, grow Eriobotrya japonica in full sun or partial shade in well-drained soil. Choose a sheltered spot to avoid wind damage to the leaves – ideally a sheltered microclimate to give you the best chance of fruit.