Four images of Eriobotrya japonica, Loquat, Pi-ba, Pi-ba-ye (leaves), Rosaceae, Rose Family is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to Japan, central China, and cultivated in subtropical regions for the fruits. The leaves, traditionally collected when the plant is fruiting (then rubbed free of irritating hairs) has been used for bitter and cooling qualities for digestive problems; externally as a wash for ulcers, sores and chapped skin.