Eriobotrya japonica 'Gold Nugget'
Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade is preferred in Phoenix, especially for young trees. Established trees tolerate full sun with adequate irrigation and protection from reflected heat.
Water: Deep, regular irrigation; not a low-water desert tree. Let the upper 2–3 inches of soil dry between waterings, and increase irrigation during extreme heat and fruit development.
Soil: Well-drained soil; loam is ideal. Tolerates several soil types but struggles with waterlogging, salinity, and strongly alkaline conditions.
Mature size: Typically 15–25 feet tall and 15–20 feet wide; can be maintained smaller with pruning after harvest.
Bloom: Fragrant flowers appear in fall through early winter; fruit generally ripens in spring, with timing affected by weather.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Moderate, becoming faster with adequate moisture and favorable conditions.