Dimocarpus longan

Dimocarpus longan, also known as the longan, is a tropical tree species that belongs to the family Sapindaceae. It is native to South Asia and is widely cultivated in various parts of the world for its edible fruit.

Description

The Dimocarpus longan tree is evergreen and can grow up to 6-7 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate, with 6-9 leaflets, each leaflet 15-25 cm long and 5-10 cm broad. The flowers are small and yellowish white, produced in panicles that are 15-25 cm long.

Fruit

The fruit of the Dimocarpus longan is spherical, 1-2 cm in diameter, and has a thin, brownish skin. Inside the skin is the translucent white flesh, which is sweet, juicy, and slightly musky. The flesh surrounds a single black seed, which is slightly poisonous if consumed.

Cultivation

Dimocarpus longan is cultivated in many parts of the world, including China, Thailand, and Vietnam. It prefers a tropical climate and well-drained soil. The tree is propagated through seeds, air layering, or grafting.

Uses

The fruit of the Dimocarpus longan is consumed fresh, dried, or canned. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for its supposed health benefits, including improving eye health, boosting immunity, and reducing stress.

See also

• Litchi chinensis
• Sapindaceae
• Tropical fruit