This particular variety of loquat is known for its compact size and abundant production of sweet, golden-colored fruit. As an evergreen tree, it offers year-round visual interest and typically reaches a manageable height, making it suitable for smaller gardens and even container cultivation. Its fruit, ripening in the spring, presents a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, reminiscent of apricot or plum.
Cultivating this loquat variant offers several advantages. Its manageable size simplifies pruning and harvesting. The copious fruit production provides ample opportunity for fresh consumption, preserves, or jellies. Historically, loquats have been valued for both their ornamental qualities and their edible fruit, making this variety a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to many landscapes. The fruit also possesses nutritional value, containing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The following sections will delve further into specific aspects of this plant, covering optimal growing conditions, potential challenges, and methods for successful propagation. Understanding these elements is crucial for ensuring a healthy and productive specimen. This includes addressing topics like soil requirements, fertilization schedules, and pest management strategies.
1. Compact Size
The characteristic of a “gold nugget loquat tree” being compact significantly shapes its cultivation, management, and overall suitability for various landscapes. Its reduced dimensions present distinct advantages and implications for gardeners and horticulturalists.
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Limited Space Requirement
The smaller stature of this loquat variety allows for cultivation in areas where space is a constraint. This includes urban gardens, patios, and balconies. Unlike standard loquat trees, which can grow to substantial heights and widths, the “gold nugget” variant remains manageable, maximizing fruit production within a limited footprint. This feature enables wider accessibility for home growers with limited land availability.
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Ease of Pruning and Maintenance
The compact size simplifies pruning tasks, allowing for easy shaping and control of the tree’s form. Routine maintenance, such as removing dead or diseased branches, becomes less challenging and time-consuming. Accessibility to all parts of the tree is improved, facilitating efficient pest control and disease management.
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Container Cultivation Feasibility
The “gold nugget” loquat’s size renders it highly suitable for container cultivation. This allows for relocation of the tree to optimize sunlight exposure or provide protection from harsh weather conditions. Container growing also offers greater control over soil composition and drainage, which can be beneficial in areas with poor native soil.
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Fruit Accessibility
The lower height makes harvesting the fruit easier, eliminating the need for ladders or specialized equipment. This is particularly advantageous for elderly gardeners or individuals with limited mobility. The accessibility also reduces the risk of damage to the tree or the fruit during the harvesting process.
In summary, the compact size of the “gold nugget loquat tree” is a defining characteristic that directly influences its practicality and desirability as a fruit-bearing ornamental plant. The reduced dimensions translate into numerous benefits related to space utilization, maintenance, harvesting, and overall manageability, making it a versatile choice for diverse gardening scenarios.
2. Abundant Fruit
The characteristic of prolific fruit production is intrinsically linked to the desirability and commercial viability of the Gold Nugget Loquat Tree. This capacity for abundant fruit is not merely an aesthetic feature but rather a defining attribute that directly impacts its value as a cultivated species. The ability to yield a substantial quantity of fruit per tree translates directly into economic benefit for commercial growers and increased satisfaction for home gardeners. This trait stems from a combination of genetic factors inherent to the variety and optimal cultivation practices that support vigorous growth and fruiting.
The importance of abundant fruit production is exemplified in the context of small-scale farming and specialty fruit markets. Growers selecting the Gold Nugget Loquat Tree often do so with the expectation of maximizing yield within a limited space. The trees ability to consistently produce a heavy crop of fruit ensures a reliable income stream and minimizes the impact of potential crop failures. For home gardeners, abundant fruit production provides a surplus for fresh consumption, preserving, and sharing with others, enhancing the overall value of the tree as a productive landscape component. Furthermore, consistent fruiting contributes to the tree’s appeal as an ornamental specimen, providing visual interest and seasonal bounty.
However, achieving consistently abundant fruit production requires diligent attention to specific cultivation practices. Optimal fertilization, proper pruning techniques, adequate irrigation, and effective pest and disease management are critical factors influencing fruit set and development. Challenges such as biennial bearing, where a heavy crop one year is followed by a lighter crop the next, can be mitigated through careful fruit thinning and nutrient management. Ultimately, understanding the relationship between these cultivation practices and the Gold Nugget Loquat Tree’s potential for abundant fruit production is essential for realizing its full economic and horticultural value.
3. Golden Color
The characteristic golden hue of the “gold nugget loquat tree” fruit is a defining attribute that significantly contributes to its appeal and marketability. This coloration is not merely superficial; it represents a complex interplay of biochemical processes within the fruit during ripening, indicative of maturity and flavor development.
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Visual Appeal and Consumer Perception
The golden color serves as a strong visual cue for consumers, signaling ripeness and sweetness. This attractive coloration enhances its shelf appeal in markets and at point of sale. The vibrant yellow-orange tones are associated with positive sensory expectations, influencing purchasing decisions and increasing the likelihood of consumption. This translates to higher market value compared to loquat varieties with less desirable coloration.
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Ripening Indicator
The intensity of the golden color is directly correlated with the fruit’s stage of maturity. As the loquat ripens, chlorophyll degrades, and carotenoids, the pigments responsible for the yellow and orange hues, become more prominent. Observing the depth and uniformity of the golden color provides a reliable method for determining the optimal harvest time, ensuring that the fruit is picked at its peak sweetness and flavor.
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Carotenoid Content and Nutritional Value
The golden color indicates the presence of carotenoids, which are precursors to Vitamin A and potent antioxidants. Higher levels of carotenoids are generally associated with a more intense coloration. Therefore, the visually appealing golden hue of the “gold nugget loquat tree” fruit suggests a higher nutritional value and potential health benefits for consumers. This connection adds another layer of desirability, promoting the fruit as not only delicious but also beneficial.
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Cultivar Differentiation
The distinct golden color serves as a key differentiator between the “gold nugget loquat tree” and other loquat cultivars. This unique characteristic allows for easy identification and distinguishes it from varieties with paler or more orange-red fruit. This differentiation is important for maintaining varietal integrity and ensuring that consumers receive the specific qualities associated with the “gold nugget” designation. Moreover, it aids in tracking the cultivar’s performance and propagation throughout different growing regions.
In conclusion, the golden coloration of the “gold nugget loquat tree” is far more than just an aesthetic quality. It represents a convergence of factors ranging from consumer appeal and ripeness indication to nutritional value and cultivar differentiation, collectively contributing to its economic and horticultural significance. It highlights how a seemingly simple visual attribute can be interwoven with complex biological processes and market dynamics, shaping the perception and value of a specific fruit variety.
4. Sweet flavor
The prominence of sweet flavor in the “gold nugget loquat tree” is a crucial determinant of its horticultural value and consumer acceptance. The distinct taste profile arises from a specific balance of sugars, acids, and volatile compounds within the fruit. Environmental factors, cultivation techniques, and genetic predisposition all exert influence on the ultimate sugar content and perceived sweetness. The consumer expects a palatable experience, and the “gold nugget” variety is frequently selected for its reputation of providing such.
The sweet flavor of this loquat variety directly affects its utilization. A heightened sweetness increases its suitability for fresh consumption, reducing the need for added sugars in processed products like jams and preserves. For commercial growers, the superior taste enhances marketability, potentially commanding higher prices. The flavor also influences the suitability for particular culinary applications, such as desserts or fruit salads, wherein a balanced sweet taste is desirable. Real-world examples include specialty fruit farmers cultivating “gold nugget” loquats specifically for niche markets that prioritize flavor over other attributes, showcasing the practical significance of this characteristic.
In summation, the sweet flavor is an indispensable component of the “gold nugget loquat tree,” impacting its economic value, culinary applications, and overall consumer appeal. Challenges associated with maintaining consistent sweetness, such as fluctuations due to climate or soil conditions, require careful management and understanding of optimal growing practices. Its desirable taste is therefore a central element of its identity.
5. Spring Ripening
The characteristic of spring ripening is a significant aspect of the “gold nugget loquat tree,” defining its fruiting cycle and influencing its cultivation strategies. The timing of fruit maturity has implications for market availability, potential pest pressures, and the overall integration of this variety into diverse growing regions. The alignment of ripening with the spring season shapes the management practices necessary for optimal yield and fruit quality.
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Market Advantage and Seasonal Availability
Spring ripening places “gold nugget loquat tree” fruit on the market during a period when many other fruits are not yet in season. This early availability can command premium prices and cater to consumers seeking fresh, locally grown produce after the winter months. The niche market window allows growers to capitalize on the demand for early-season fruit, maximizing profitability and enhancing the tree’s economic value.
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Climatic Considerations and Regional Suitability
Spring ripening requires a specific set of climatic conditions, including adequate chilling hours during winter followed by a period of warming temperatures in spring. The success of “gold nugget loquat tree” cultivation is therefore tied to its suitability for regions with mild winters and moderate spring temperatures. Areas with late frosts or excessively hot springs may experience reduced fruit set or premature ripening, affecting fruit quality and yield.
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Pest and Disease Management Strategies
The spring ripening period coincides with the emergence of certain pests and diseases that can target loquat fruit. Growers must implement proactive pest and disease management strategies to protect the developing fruit from damage. This may involve integrated pest management techniques, including monitoring pest populations, applying appropriate treatments, and maintaining good orchard sanitation. The timing of these interventions is crucial for minimizing losses and ensuring high-quality fruit at harvest.
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Nutrient Requirements and Irrigation Management
The “gold nugget loquat tree” requires adequate nutrient availability and consistent irrigation during the spring ripening period to support fruit development. Deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can negatively impact fruit size, sweetness, and overall quality. Similarly, water stress can lead to premature fruit drop or reduced fruit size. Careful monitoring of soil moisture and nutrient levels is essential for optimizing fruit production during this critical phase.
The convergence of spring ripening with the unique characteristics of the “gold nugget loquat tree” establishes a framework for successful cultivation and market positioning. By understanding the interplay between climatic factors, pest pressures, and nutritional requirements, growers can optimize fruit production and capitalize on the early-season availability of this valuable fruit variety. This timing is a key element of the loquat’s identity and cultivation needs.
6. Evergreen foliage
The evergreen foliage of the “gold nugget loquat tree” is a foundational characteristic with implications extending beyond mere aesthetic appeal. The persistent presence of leaves throughout the year dictates photosynthetic activity, influencing the tree’s overall health and fruit production capabilities. Unlike deciduous trees, which undergo seasonal leaf loss and a period of dormancy, the evergreen nature of the loquat provides continuous energy production, contributing to its capacity for abundant fruit. This constant photosynthetic activity necessitates consistent water and nutrient availability, especially in regions with distinct seasonal variations. The evergreen canopy also offers year-round shade and wind protection, influencing the microclimate around the tree and affecting soil moisture retention.
The year-round foliage impacts practical applications such as landscape design. The “gold nugget loquat tree” can serve as a persistent visual screen or windbreak, offering continuous privacy and protection where deciduous species would leave gaps during the dormant season. The evergreen nature also reduces the need for seasonal clean-up associated with leaf drop, minimizing maintenance requirements. In horticultural practices, understanding the evergreen nature informs decisions regarding fertilization schedules. Unlike deciduous trees which benefit from concentrated fertilization during active growth periods, the “gold nugget loquat tree” often benefits from more consistent, lower-dose feeding throughout the year to support its continuous growth and photosynthetic activity. Irrigation strategies also adjust to account for the ongoing transpiration from the evergreen canopy, especially in arid or semi-arid environments.
In conclusion, the evergreen foliage of the “gold nugget loquat tree” is not merely a cosmetic feature; it’s a pivotal physiological characteristic that shapes the tree’s growth habits, resource requirements, and integration into various horticultural settings. Challenges in managing this evergreen nature arise primarily from ensuring adequate water and nutrient availability throughout the year, particularly in regions with extreme seasonal variations. Its year-round green provides continuous benefits but demands consistent monitoring and management to maximize its advantages.
7. Garden Suitability
The “gold nugget loquat tree” possesses characteristics that render it particularly well-suited for inclusion in a diverse range of garden settings. Its size, growth habits, and aesthetic qualities contribute to its adaptability as a versatile ornamental and fruit-bearing addition to both residential and commercial landscapes. The tree’s overall garden suitability is contingent upon factors ranging from space constraints to climate considerations, influencing planting location and long-term maintenance requirements.
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Compact Size and Space Efficiency
The relatively small stature of the “gold nugget loquat tree” makes it an ideal choice for gardens with limited space. Unlike larger fruit trees that require substantial area for root development and canopy expansion, this variety can thrive in smaller plots or even in containers. This space efficiency allows gardeners to maximize fruit production within confined spaces, making it suitable for urban gardens, patios, and balconies where larger trees would be impractical.
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Adaptability to Various Soil Types
The “gold nugget loquat tree” exhibits a degree of tolerance to a range of soil types, provided that adequate drainage is present. While it prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils, it can adapt to less-than-ideal conditions with proper soil amendments. This adaptability broadens its suitability for gardens with varying soil compositions, reducing the need for extensive soil modification prior to planting. However, consistently waterlogged soils should be avoided to prevent root rot and other related issues.
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Ornamental Value and Aesthetic Integration
Beyond its fruit-bearing capabilities, the “gold nugget loquat tree” possesses significant ornamental value. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round visual interest, while its fragrant flowers add seasonal beauty. The tree’s compact size and manageable growth habit allow it to be easily integrated into diverse garden designs, complementing existing plants and structures. Its aesthetic qualities enhance the overall appeal of the garden, making it a dual-purpose addition that combines beauty with utility.
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Low Maintenance Requirements
Compared to some other fruit trees, the “gold nugget loquat tree” generally requires less intensive maintenance. Its compact size simplifies pruning, while its relative resistance to pests and diseases reduces the need for frequent intervention. This low-maintenance characteristic makes it an attractive option for gardeners seeking a productive fruit tree without demanding excessive time or effort. Regular watering during dry periods and occasional fertilization are typically sufficient to maintain its health and productivity.
In conclusion, the “gold nugget loquat tree” displays a compelling array of attributes that contribute to its overall garden suitability. Its compact size, adaptability, ornamental value, and low maintenance requirements make it a versatile choice for a wide range of garden settings. The tree’s capacity to thrive in diverse conditions and provide both aesthetic appeal and fruit production underscores its value as a practical and desirable addition to the landscape.
8. Container potential
The “gold nugget loquat tree” exhibits significant container potential, stemming directly from its inherent compact growth habit. This characteristic allows cultivation in environments where in-ground planting is impractical or impossible, extending its reach to urban settings, balconies, and patios. The limited size allows for easier management of soil conditions, facilitating precise control over pH, drainage, and nutrient availability. Furthermore, container cultivation enables mobility, allowing the plant to be repositioned to optimize sunlight exposure or provide protection from adverse weather conditions. The container’s presence dictates the root structure, often resulting in a slightly smaller overall tree size while still enabling substantial fruit production. An example includes apartment dwellers who successfully cultivate “gold nugget loquat trees” on balconies, yielding fruit in otherwise unavailable environments. The significance lies in its democratized accessibility to fruiting tree cultivation, regardless of land ownership.
Successfully leveraging the container potential necessitates adherence to specific practices. Choosing an appropriately sized container is paramount, balancing root restriction with adequate space for growth and stability. The selection of a well-draining potting mix is crucial to prevent root rot. Regular monitoring of soil moisture is essential, as container-grown plants tend to dry out more rapidly than those in the ground. Fertilization schedules must be adjusted to compensate for the limited nutrient reservoir within the container. Pruning techniques can also be modified to maintain a desired shape and size, optimizing fruit production within the confined space. Growers in colder climates can utilize container cultivation to overwinter “gold nugget loquat trees” indoors, extending their viable range.
In summary, the inherent attributes of the “gold nugget loquat tree” combined with appropriate container cultivation techniques allows for successful fruit production in a variety of settings where in-ground planting is not feasible. Challenges, however, include the increased need for vigilant monitoring of soil conditions and the potential for root-bound conditions if the plant is not repotted regularly. Understanding these factors is crucial for realizing the full potential of this fruit-bearing tree in a confined environment, extending its cultivation from traditional landscapes to urban settings.
9. Easy Harvesting
The characteristic of “easy harvesting” is a significant advantage associated with the “gold nugget loquat tree”, directly influencing cultivation efficiency and accessibility for both commercial growers and home gardeners. The tree’s physical attributes, combined with optimal cultivation practices, contribute to streamlined fruit collection.
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Compact Tree Size and Accessibility
The relatively small size of the “gold nugget loquat tree” directly facilitates harvesting. The lower height of the tree makes the fruit readily accessible without the need for specialized equipment such as ladders or elevated platforms. This accessibility reduces the physical demands of harvesting and minimizes the risk of falls or injuries. For example, older individuals or those with mobility limitations can more easily harvest the fruit compared to taller, more expansive fruit trees.
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Uniform Ripening and Visual Cues
The “gold nugget loquat tree” typically exhibits a degree of uniform ripening across its fruit crop. This synchronized maturation simplifies the harvesting process, as a significant portion of the fruit is ready for collection at the same time. Furthermore, the distinctive golden color of the ripe fruit provides a clear visual cue for determining harvest readiness, reducing the need for tactile inspection of each individual fruit. This visual clarity accelerates the harvesting process and minimizes the likelihood of collecting unripe or overripe fruit.
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Delicate Fruit Detachment
The fruit of the “gold nugget loquat tree” detaches relatively easily from the tree when ripe. This characteristic minimizes the force required to remove the fruit, reducing the risk of bruising or damage during harvesting. The gentle detachment also simplifies the process of selective harvesting, allowing growers to pick only the ripe fruit while leaving the remainder to mature further. This selective harvesting approach can extend the overall harvest window and improve the quality of the fruit crop.
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Reduced Need for Specialized Tools
The ease of harvesting associated with the “gold nugget loquat tree” often eliminates the need for specialized tools or equipment. Unlike some fruit trees that require long-handled pickers or other devices to reach high-hanging fruit, the loquat’s accessible fruit and easy detachment typically allow for hand harvesting. This reduction in equipment needs lowers the initial investment costs for growers and simplifies the overall harvesting process. It also makes the tree more appealing to home gardeners who may not have access to specialized tools.
The convergence of these factors compact tree size, uniform ripening, delicate fruit detachment, and reduced need for specialized tools collectively contributes to the “gold nugget loquat tree’s” reputation for easy harvesting. This characteristic enhances its appeal to both commercial growers seeking efficient harvesting practices and home gardeners looking for a low-maintenance fruit tree option. Its cultivation, therefore, becomes more accessible and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the cultivation, characteristics, and management of the “gold nugget loquat tree,” providing concise and factual answers.
Question 1: What are the primary distinctions between the “gold nugget loquat tree” and standard loquat varieties?
The “gold nugget loquat tree” is characterized by its compact size, abundant production of golden-colored fruit, and relatively early ripening period compared to other loquat cultivars.
Question 2: In which USDA hardiness zones does the “gold nugget loquat tree” thrive?
The “gold nugget loquat tree” generally thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11, indicating a tolerance for mild winters and warm summers.
Question 3: What are the optimal soil conditions for planting a “gold nugget loquat tree”?
Well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH is optimal for the “gold nugget loquat tree.” Heavy clay soils should be amended to improve drainage and aeration.
Question 4: How frequently should a “gold nugget loquat tree” be watered, particularly during fruit development?
Consistent and deep watering is crucial during fruit development, especially in dry conditions. However, overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot. Monitor soil moisture levels regularly.
Question 5: What are common pests or diseases that may affect the “gold nugget loquat tree,” and how can they be managed?
Potential pests include aphids and fruit flies, while diseases may include leaf spot or root rot. Integrated pest management strategies and proper sanitation practices are recommended for control.
Question 6: What pruning techniques are recommended for the “gold nugget loquat tree” to maximize fruit production and maintain its shape?
Pruning should focus on removing dead or crossing branches, thinning out the canopy to improve air circulation, and shaping the tree to promote fruit production. Pruning is best performed after harvest.
Understanding these common questions and their answers will assist in the successful cultivation and enjoyment of the “gold nugget loquat tree.”
The subsequent section will explore propagation methods for this particular variety of loquat.
Cultivation Tips for Gold Nugget Loquat Trees
Optimizing the growth and yield of a “gold nugget loquat tree” requires adherence to specific cultivation practices. These tips offer guidance on essential aspects of care.
Tip 1: Ensure Proper Soil Drainage: The “gold nugget loquat tree” is susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage and aeration. Elevated planting can also mitigate waterlogging issues.
Tip 2: Provide Adequate Sunlight: A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily is essential for optimal fruit production. Insufficient sunlight can result in reduced fruit set and diminished fruit quality.
Tip 3: Implement a Consistent Watering Schedule: While established “gold nugget loquat trees” are relatively drought-tolerant, regular watering is crucial, especially during fruit development. Deep watering is preferable to frequent shallow watering.
Tip 4: Apply Balanced Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer formulation, such as 10-10-10, to provide essential nutrients. Apply fertilizer in the spring and early summer, following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the tree.
Tip 5: Practice Strategic Pruning: Prune the “gold nugget loquat tree” annually after harvest to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning promotes air circulation, sunlight penetration, and fruit production.
Tip 6: Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Regularly inspect the “gold nugget loquat tree” for signs of pests or diseases. Common pests include aphids and fruit flies. Implement appropriate control measures promptly to prevent infestations from escalating.
Tip 7: Protect from Frost Damage: While the “gold nugget loquat tree” is relatively cold-hardy, young trees and developing fruit can be damaged by frost. Provide protection during periods of extreme cold by covering the tree with burlap or horticultural fleece.
Consistent application of these tips will contribute significantly to the health, vigor, and productivity of the “gold nugget loquat tree.”
The concluding section will summarize the key benefits and considerations for cultivating this particular loquat variety.
Conclusion
This exploration of the “gold nugget loquat tree” has highlighted its distinct advantages, ranging from its compact size and abundant fruit production to its ease of harvesting and container suitability. Its attributes make it a compelling choice for both home gardeners with limited space and commercial growers seeking a productive and manageable cultivar. The careful consideration of soil requirements, fertilization practices, and pest management strategies is essential for maximizing its potential.
Ultimately, the successful cultivation of this variety hinges on a thorough understanding of its specific needs and the consistent application of optimal horticultural practices. Its value extends beyond mere fruit production, offering aesthetic appeal and contributing to the diversification of sustainable gardening efforts. Continued research and observation will further refine cultivation techniques, ensuring its long-term viability and expanding its presence in landscapes worldwide.
