Dimocarpus longan (Longan)

Longan: The Sweet, Juicy Fruit with a “Dragon’s Eye”

Dimocarpus longan, better known as longan fruit or “dragon’s eye,” is a tropical gem that’s juicy, musky-sweet, and totally unique. Closely related to lychee, longan has carved out its own fan base thanks to its flavor, ease of growth, and health benefits. Whether you’re snacking on dried longan, growing a longan tree, or sipping longan tea, this fruit adds tropical flair to your diet and garden.

Longan belongs to the plant family Sapindaceae, commonly known as the soapberry family. This family also includes Maples (Acer spp.), Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum), Goldenrain tree (Koelreuteria paniculata), Lychee (Litchi chinensis), ackee (blighia sapida), and Hopbush (Dodonaea viscosa).

What is Longan?

Description

Longan fruit grows in grape-like clusters on evergreen trees. Each round fruit has a thin, tan shell that’s easy to crack open—inside, you’ll find translucent flesh with a dark seed at the center, resembling an eyeball (hence the nickname). The taste? Sweet, juicy, and lightly musky—many people describe it as a mix between lychee and melon.

Native Range

Originally from southern Asia (China, India, and Vietnam), longan is now cultivated in Florida, Hawaii, California, and across Southeast Asia.

Growth Habit

Longan trees are evergreen, dense, and lush. In tropical climates, they can grow up to 40 feet (12 m) tall or more, with glossy green leaves and corky bark. The popular ‘Kohala’ variety thrives in South Florida and is prized for its reliable harvest and sweet fruit.
The lifespan of a longan tree can range from 40 to over 100 years, depending on the growing conditions, care, and environment.

Size

Longan trees can grow 30 to 40 feet (9-12 m) tall in tropical climates and just as wide, forming a full, rounded canopy. In more temperate zones like California, they typically stay shorter, closer to 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.5 m). These trees may grow slowly at first, but with time, they develop into impressive, shade-giving giants.

Flowers

From late winter to early spring, longan trees produce creamy yellow blossoms arranged in large, branched clusters called panicles. These flowers are tiny but fragrant and attract pollinators like bees. They contain male, female, and hermaphrodite blooms, which increases fruit set chances when pollinators are active.

Fruits

Each fruit is about the size of a large grape. When ripe (mid-July to September), the skin turns deep tan. The pulp inside is clear and juicy, surrounding a single shiny black seed. Once picked, longan doesn’t ripen further, so taste-test before harvesting. Tropical Fruits You Have Probably Never Heard of (But Should Try!)

Leaves

The leaves are glossy, leathery, and pinnate, meaning they grow in pairs along a central stem. Each leaflet is lance-shaped and can be up to 8 inches (20 cm) long. New growth often has a coppery tint before maturing to rich, dark green, adding beautiful texture to the canopy.

Hardiness

Longan trees thrive in USDA zones 10–11 and tolerate short dips to 22°F (-5.5°C), but prefer temperatures above 40°F (4.5°C). They prefer full sun, sandy soil, and good drainage. Protect young trees from frost and wind.

Uses

• Fresh Eating: Sweet and juicy, longan is a popular fruit snack across Asia.
• Dried Longan: Often used in traditional Asian desserts, teas, and herbal tonics.
• Culinary: Longan works great in smoothies, fruit salads, jams, and even savory dishes like curries.
• Medicinal: Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for calming and boosting energy.
• Ornamental: Its lush foliage and tropical look make it a standout tree in any landscape.

Wildlife

Longan trees are pollinator magnets, especially during the flowering season. Bees love their blossoms, and birds may visit to nibble on ripe fruit or seek shelter in the dense canopy. In Southeast Asia, local wildlife like fruit bats and squirrels are also known to snack on longans.

Toxicity

Good news: Longan fruit is safe to eat for most people and is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. That said, longan seeds are not edible—they’re hard and bitter, so skip chewing on those. Also, if you’re sensitive to sulfites, be aware that dried or canned longan may be treated with sulfur dioxide as a preservative. Always read the label if you’re avoiding additives.

Invasiveness

Longan trees are not considered invasive in most areas where they’re grown, like Florida, Hawaii, or California. They’re well-behaved in gardens and orchards, and they don’t usually spread aggressively or crowd out native species.
That said, they do grow large, so give them plenty of space when planting. In tropical climates with rich soil and high rainfall, longan can grow fast and wide, but they won’t take over your backyard or local ecosystem like some tropical invaders do.

As always, check with your local extension office or invasive species list if you’re planting in a new region, just to be safe.

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Longan?

Longan may be small, but it’s loaded with nutrition. Low in calories and rich in water, this tropical fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C and other essential nutrients that support your health. Here’s what you’ll find in 100g of fresh longan:

DV = Daily Value based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Nutrient values may vary with ripeness and growing conditions.

Longan also contains trace amounts of thiamine, niacin, magnesium, copper, iron, phosphorus, and calcium. It’s naturally low in fat and sodium but relatively high in natural sugars, making it a sweet yet healthy treat.

What Are the Health Benefits of Longan?

Longan isn’t just delicious—it also comes with a variety of health benefits backed by both tradition and science. Here’s how this tropical fruit may support your well-being:

Most of the antioxidants in longan are concentrated in the skin and seed, but even the juicy pulp delivers meaningful health benefits. While some studies use concentrated extracts, enjoying fresh or dried longan as part of a balanced diet is a delicious and easy way to support your overall wellness.

Top Tropical Fruits that Boost your Health Naturally

How to Eat Longan Fruit

Eating longan is simple—and delicious! Whether you’re snacking on it fresh, stirring it into tea, or using it in dessert, this tropical fruit is easy to love. Here’s how to enjoy it in all its forms:

Fresh Longan

• Crack and peel: Gently squeeze or slice the thin, tan shell until it splits. Peel it off with your fingers to reveal the juicy, translucent flesh.
• Remove the seed: Inside the fruit is a shiny black seed. It’s not edible, so just pop the fruit into your mouth, nibble around the seed, and toss it out.
• Eat it raw or mix it up: Enjoy fresh longan on its own or toss it into fruit salads, yogurt bowls, or smoothies for a sweet tropical twist.

Dried Longan

• Soak before use (optional): Dried longan can be a little chewy. Soak in warm water for 15–20 minutes if you prefer a softer texture or want to use it in cooking.
• Sweet and savory magic: Add to herbal teas, rice porridge, soups, or Chinese tonics. It adds a rich, musky sweetness that blends beautifully with ginger, dates, and goji berries.
• Traditional wellness: Dried longan is popular in traditional Chinese medicine for calming the mind and supporting energy levels.

Canned Longan

• Drain or rinse: Canned longan is usually packed in syrup. Drain for a lighter taste or use the syrup in drinks and desserts.
• Top your treats: Great in fruit cocktails, over ice cream, or stirred into bubble tea. Try it with coconut milk or citrus for extra flair.

From snacking fresh to simmering in soup, longan fruit is as versatile as it is tasty. Pair it with other tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or lychee—or use it to add subtle sweetness to savory dishes and teas. However you enjoy it, longan is a quick, refreshing treat with a flavor all its own.

What are the Risks and Side Effects of Longan?

Longan fruit is usually a safe and healthy treat, but like any fruit, it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Here are a few things to be aware of before adding longan to your daily routine:

For most people, fresh longan is a safe and enjoyable fruit. Just keep an eye on portion size, check those labels if you’re buying canned or dried versions, and always listen to your body.

How to Grow a Longan Tree

Thinking of growing your own longan tree? Great choice! With its glossy green foliage, fragrant blooms, and sweet, juicy fruit, the longan tree makes a beautiful and productive addition to any subtropical garden—or even a large container.

Climate & Location

Longan trees thrive in warm, humid climates and are best suited to USDA zones 10–11. They need full sun to produce fruit, so pick a bright, sunny spot that’s protected from strong winds. In cooler areas, they can be grown in pots and moved indoors during winter.

Soil

Longan prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). In alkaline soils, iron chelate may be needed to prevent chlorosis. Avoid soggy or compacted soil—it can lead to root rot. Good drainage is key!

Planting

• Late spring to early summer is best for planting in most climates.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
• Amend the soil with compost if needed, then plant at the same depth as it was in the nursery container.
• Backfill gently, water deeply, and mulch around the base—leaving a gap near the trunk.

Watering

Newly planted trees need regular watering until established. Mature longans are drought-tolerant but should be watered consistently during flowering and fruiting season (spring–summer). Reduce watering in fall and winter.

Fertilizing

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer 2–3 times a year during the growing season. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers once the tree starts flowering—too much nitrogen can reduce fruiting.

Pruning

Longans need minimal pruning. Remove dead or crossing branches and lightly shape the canopy after harvest. Keep the tree open in the center for better airflow and light penetration.

Support

Young trees benefit from staking, especially in windy areas. As the tree matures, strong lateral branches will help support fruit-laden limbs naturally.

Can You Grow Longan in a Container?

Absolutely! Growing longan in a pot is not only possible—it’s surprisingly rewarding. With the right setup, you can enjoy this tropical treat on your patio or balcony and even harvest fruit. Here’s what you need to know:

Choose the Right Container

Start with at least a 5-gallon (19-liter) pot for young trees. As your tree grows, size up to a larger container—ideally 15 to 25 gallons or more, with at least a 24-inch diameter. More room means better roots and bigger rewards!

Sunlight

Place your potted longan somewhere sunny—this tree needs 6 to 8 hours of direct sun a day to thrive and eventually fruit. No sun, no fruit!

Soil and Drainage

Longan loves rich, well-draining soil. A good mix is 70% quality potting soil, 15% coarse river sand, and 15% compost. And don’t forget those drainage holes—soggy roots are a big no-no.

Watering

Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water more often in summer and cut back in winter. Tip: never let the pot sit in standing water.

Feeding and Fertilizing

Feed with a balanced fertilizer from spring through fall, but go easy on the nitrogen or you’ll get more leaves than fruit. A slow-release blend works great.

Pruning for Size and Shape

Prune lightly to control the height and encourage a bushy, compact form. Snip off dead or leggy growth and pinch new tips for fuller branching.

Fruit in a Pot? Yes, Really!

For the best chance at fruiting, start with a grafted or air-layered longan tree—not one grown from seed. With the right care, even container-grown longans can bloom and bear delicious fruit.

Bonus Tips

• Protect from cold—move your pot indoors or to a sheltered spot if temps drop below 40°F (4°C).
• Use mulch to retain moisture and keep weeds down.
• Repot or root-prune every few years to keep things tidy and healthy.

With sunshine, good soil, and a little patience, you’ll be well on your way to growing longan at home—even if your “garden” is just a sunny corner of your porch.

How to Harvest and Store Longan

Harvesting Longan

Longan fruit typically ripens from mid-July to early September, depending on your climate and the cultivar. In Florida, the peak harvest is usually in August. You’ll know it’s time when the skin turns a uniform deep tan and the fruit tastes sweet and juicy—longan doesn’t ripen after picking, so don’t rely on appearance alone.

• Harvest in the morning when temperatures are cooler to minimize moisture loss.
• Use clean pruning shears or scissors to snip entire fruit clusters from the branch. This helps the fruit last longer.
• Handle gently to avoid bruising the thin skin and damaging the fruit.
• Harvested fruit should be placed in the shade immediately and cooled as soon as possible to preserve quality

Storing Longan

Fresh longan has a relatively short shelf life, so proper storage is key to enjoying your harvest as long as possible.

• Refrigeration: Place freshly harvested longan in a perforated plastic bag and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 5–7 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze whole longan (with peel and seed) for up to a year. The texture will be softer when thawed, but it’s great for smoothies and cooking.
• Drying: Dried longan is a traditional snack and herbal remedy in many Asian cultures. Dehydrate the peeled fruit in a low-temperature oven or food dehydrator until leathery.
• Canning: Canned longan (usually in syrup) is available commercially and can also be made at home. Just be cautious of added sugars or preservatives like sulfur dioxide.

Whether eaten fresh, frozen, or dried, properly handled longan fruit is a sweet tropical treat that’s worth the effort!

How to Propagate a Longan Tree

Seed Propagation

Growing longan from seed is possible, but not ideal for reliable fruit production. Seed-grown trees are genetically variable and take longer (5–10 years) to bear fruit. Still, it can be fun if you’re feeling patient or just want a leafy shade tree.

• Start with fresh seeds from ripe, healthy fruit. Seeds should be planted soon after extraction, as viability drops quickly.
• Remove the pulp and soak the seed in water overnight.
• Plant in well-draining soil about 1 inch deep and keep in a warm, sunny location.
• Germination: Usually takes 1–4 weeks with regular watering and warm temperatures.

Air Layering (Marcottage)

This is the most popular and reliable way to propagate longan trees, especially for producing fruiting trees identical to the parent.

• Choose a healthy, pencil-thick branch on a mature tree.
• Girdle the stem by removing a 1-inch ring of bark.
• Wrap the exposed area with moist sphagnum moss and enclose it in plastic wrap or foil.
• Wait 6–8 weeks for roots to form. Once rooted, cut below the roots and plant your new tree!

Grafting and Inarching

Less commonly done by home gardeners, these techniques are used in commercial settings to create uniform trees. Inarching (joining a seedling rootstock to a mature scion while both are still rooted) is traditional in parts of Asia.

Cuttings

Longan cuttings are notoriously difficult to root and usually have a low success rate. It’s not recommended unless you have controlled greenhouse conditions and plenty of propagation experience.

Best tip? If you want fruit fast, go with air layering. You’ll have a fruiting longan tree in 2–4 years with proper care!

Common Pests and Diseases of Longan Trees

Pests

Longan trees are fairly resilient but can still face issues with common garden pests. Here are some of the most frequent invaders to watch out for:

• Aphids – Sap-sucking insects that distort new growth and produce sticky honeydew, which can lead to fungal growth.
• Scale insects – These small, armored bugs attach to stems and leaves, draining plant sap and attracting ants.
• Mealybugs – White, cotton-like pests often found in leaf joints and fruit clusters. They produce honeydew and promote sooty mold.
• Fruit flies – Including oriental fruit flies, these pests lay eggs in ripening fruit, causing damage and early spoilage.
• Spider mites – Tiny mites that feed on leaf cells, leaving pale speckles or bronzed patches.
• Fungus gnats – Usually a problem for container trees with overly wet soil. Larvae may feed on roots.
• Thrips – These tiny pests can cause silvery streaks on leaves and may damage developing fruit.
• Caterpillars – Leaf-chewing larvae that may defoliate trees if infestations are large.
• Weevils – In some regions, such as Florida, weevils may feed on foliage or burrow near roots.

Diseases

Though longan trees are relatively hardy, they can still fall victim to disease—especially in humid, poorly ventilated environments.

• Sooty mold – A black fungus that feeds on insect honeydew. While unsightly, it’s mostly cosmetic and washes off.
• Witch’s Broom – A serious condition common in Asia, caused by the mite Eriophyes dimocarpi. It results in dense clusters of small leaves and reduced fruiting.
• Root rot – Linked to poor drainage and overwatering. Watch for yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth.
• Longan Decline – Most common in Thailand, this syndrome includes dieback, leaf drop, poor growth, and low fruit yield.
• Stem-End Rot – Affects fruit at the point of attachment to the tree, leading to browning and post-harvest spoilage.
• Anthracnose – A fungal disease (Colletotrichum species) causing sunken spots on leaves, flowers, or fruit, often in wet weather.
• Algal Spot – Caused by Cephaleuros virescens, this produces reddish-orange patches on leaves and stems, especially in warm, moist climates.

How to Prevent and Control Problems

• Keep the area under the tree clean—remove fallen fruit, leaves, and debris to reduce pest and fungal buildup.
• Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
• Promote drainage and avoid overwatering, especially in clay-heavy soils or containers.
• Prune to improve air circulation and sunlight exposure, which helps reduce fungal disease risk.
• Encourage natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps to keep pest populations in check.
• In high-risk areas, consider fruit bagging during development to deter fruit flies and reduce fungal contact.

With good hygiene, smart watering, and regular observation, most longan pest and disease problems can be managed before they cause major harm.

Longan FAQs

Where is longan native to, and where is it popular?

Longan is originally from southern China and India, but it’s become a favorite across much of Asia. It’s widely grown in Vietnam, Thailand, and Taiwan, and you’ll also find it flourishing in Florida and Hawaii in the U.S.

What does longan taste like?

Think sweet and juicy with a subtle floral note and a touch of honey. It’s often compared to lychee but has a more mellow, musky flavor. Super refreshing on a hot day!

What are the nutritional benefits of longan?

Longan is low in calories and rich in vitamin C. It also provides potassium, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants that help support your immune system, skin health, and fight off inflammation.

How is longan used in traditional medicine?

In traditional Chinese medicine, longan is known for its calming properties. It’s used to help with insomnia, stress, fatigue, and is believed to support digestion and mental clarity.

How do you eat longan?

Just crack open the shell with your fingers, pop out the translucent flesh, and enjoy. Avoid the black seed inside. You can eat it fresh, toss it into fruit salads, or use it dried in teas and soups.

Can you eat longan daily?

Yes! It’s healthy and hydrating. Just eat it in moderation, especially if you’re aiming for a fiber-friendly balance in your diet.

Is longan safe for pregnant women?

Longan is generally safe for pregnant women in moderate amounts, just like most fruits. As always, it’s best to check with your doctor if unsure.

Are there different varieties of longan?

Absolutely. There are many cultivars, each with its own sweetness, size, and texture. ‘Kohala’ is one of the most popular in the U.S.

When is longan harvested?

The harvest season runs from mid to late summer, usually around July through September. Fruit ripens about 140–190 days after pollination.

What are some traditional beliefs about longan?

Longan is believed to nourish your “vital essence” in Chinese culture. It’s also associated with calmness, balance, and mental clarity.

What are some common uses for longan?

Fresh, dried, or canned—longan is super versatile. It’s delicious in fruit salads, desserts, smoothies, and teas. Dried longan is especially popular in traditional soups and tonics.

What are some health benefits attributed to longan?

• Boosts immunity
• Supports healthy skin
• Aids digestion
• May improve circulation and help absorb iron
• Traditionally used for stress, insomnia, and fatigue

Why is it called “dragon’s eye”?

When you peel a longan, the clear flesh and central black seed look just like an eyeball. That’s why it’s called “dragon’s eye” in Chinese.

How tall do longan trees grow?

In the tropics, longan trees can reach up to 100 feet (30 meters). In home gardens, they’re usually pruned to a more manageable size—around 20–30 feet.

Can longan be grown at home?

Yes! If you live in a tropical or subtropical climate, longan is a great choice. It loves full sun, sandy soil, and good drainage.

In Summary:

Longan is a delicious tropical fruit with a sweet, musky flavor and lots of health perks. It’s loved in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine, easy to enjoy fresh or dried, and safe for most people—pregnant women included—when eaten in moderation.