Longan
Dimocarpus longanfam. Sapindaceae
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Pl. 8717 — Dimocarpus longan
Dimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longanDimocarpus longan
IOverview
Overview
Longan (Dimocarpus longan), a member of the Sapindaceae family, is native to regions including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, and various Southeast Asian countries such as Cambodia, China South-Central, and Vietnam. This tree thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure, growing up to 12 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit, longan is a versatile ornamental and can be found across its native range from the East Himalayas to Southeast Asia. One distinctive feature of this plant is its small, round fruits with a single seed encased in a sweet, translucent flesh, making it a popular choice in both culinary and horticultural settings.
Quick answers
What is Longan?
Longan (Dimocarpus longan), a member of the Sapindaceae family, is native to regions including Andaman Islands, Assam, Bangladesh, and various Southeast Asian countries such as Cambodia, China South-Central, and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Longan thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-10, making it suitable for subtropical climates. The tree grows up to 12 meters tall and produces edible fruit. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist but well-draining to prevent root rot. Propagate Longan through seed or grafting.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-10
Habit
Tree
Mature size
12.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Longan for the first time
8steps
Start with a young tree for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young longan tree, well-draining soil, and a large container if planting in a pot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or early summer when temperatures are warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soil. Ensure the container has good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young tree from a nursery pot to your garden or larger container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional pruning to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth. Harvest fruit when they turn golden brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun without acclimation, neglecting regular pruning, and using unsuitable soil types.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The longan fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various dishes. It is often consumed fresh but can also be dried to preserve its flavor and sweetness. The fruit is sometimes added to desserts and tea infusions, enhancing the dish with its unique taste.
Other uses:Fire starterLumberHairPolesSoap
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
20 native · 9 introduced
Distribution
20 native · 9 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 20 native· 9 introduced
Asia11 regions
native (10)BangladeshCambodiaChinaIndiaLaosMyanmarPhilippinesSri LankaThailandVietnam
introduced (1)Taiwan
Broader regions
native:Nicobar Is., Sulawesi, Sumatera, Andaman Is., Borneo, East Himalaya, Hainan, Malaya, Maluku
introduced:Caroline Is., Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Marianas, New Guinea, Réunion, Society Is., Florida
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Sapindaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Sapindaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 8717f1a0-c072-4ba0-9c45-3ae28bd1d1fd
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