Dimocarpus longanLongan Tree

The Dimocarpus longan, commonly known as the Longan Tree, is a broad evergreen canopy tree from southern China and mainland Southeast Asia, grown across the tropics for its round tan-skinned fruit and, in landscape work, for the density and evenness of its crown. Large terminal panicles of small cream flowers open in spring and are heavily worked by bees.

It is planted for shade in parks, along avenues and in edible landscapes, where a single mature specimen covers a considerable area.

Specifications

• Height9 to 15 metres
• Width8 to 12 metres
• Native toSouthern China and mainland Southeast Asia
• FoliagePinnate leaves with glossy, leathery leaflets held densely; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers deep, well-drained sandy loams; tolerates a range of soils but not waterlogging
• LightFull sun
• WaterModerate; needs reliable water at fruit set but tolerates dry spells once established
• ClimateThrives in tropical and warm subtropical regions and tolerates brief light frost when mature

Additional Features

• FlowersLarge terminal panicles of small yellowish-white flowers in spring
• FruitRound tan-skinned fruit with translucent sweet flesh, ripening in summer
• UsesIdeal for shade, park and avenue planting, orchards and edible landscapes
• SpacingPlant 8 to 10 metres apart for a closed canopy
• Low MaintenancePrune after harvest to keep the crown open and within reach
• Pest ResistanceGenerally robust; monitor for fruit-feeding pests where a crop is retained
• Wildlife AttractionFlowering panicles are heavily worked by bees, and the fruit feeds birds and bats

The Longan Tree is a genuine shade tree that happens to carry a commercial fruit crop, and both qualities read well in a public landscape.