Dimocarpus longan DRAGON EYES (5 seeds)

Longan, also known as Dragon’s Eye, Dimocarpus longan is a tree in the Sapindaceae family. It can reach about twenty meters in height.
It is a tropical and subtropical evergreen fruit tree that produces small edible fruits called longans. It is native to Southeast China, where it grows naturally.

The fruits are the size of a round, gray lychee; the flesh is white and contains a seed the size of a marble.

The leaves are compound, pinnate, and alternate, measuring between 10 and 20 cm long with a smooth texture and a shiny dark green color. They are elliptical or sometimes oval with entire margins.

The flowers are small, white or cream-colored, and gathered in compact clusters. Each flower has five oval petals and gives off a delicate, sweet fragrance. Flowering occurs in spring.

- Uses:

Longan is a tropical fruit gaining popularity for its characteristic and unique sweet taste; its flesh is packed with nutritional benefits. Known as the "cousin" of the lychee, this noble fruit is consumed fresh or as an extremely sweet juice (often mixed with other juices to balance the sweetness).

In Asia, the longan is used to calm the mind, improve sleep quality, and strengthen vitality. It is often included in herbal teas or plant-based remedies. Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.

- Germination and Sowing Seeds:

• The best period to sow Dragon’s Eye seeds is from May to the end of July.
• Soak the seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water.
• Plant them 1 cm deep in pre-moistened 5x5 cm peat pots.
• Water the culture gently with a hand sprayer.
• Place the pots in a warm (30°C) and humid spot; a greenhouse is perfect.
• Germination can take up to 4 weeks after sowing.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

This tree prefers a light soil rich in humus. A sandy or sandy-loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for promoting healthy growth.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This exotic fruit tree requires full sun, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Optimal sunlight promotes fruiting and fruit ripening.

- Temperatures / Hardiness:

It is sensitive to cold and cannot withstand temperatures below 0°C. It prefers a hot and humid climate, with temperatures generally between 20°C and 35°C. It has low hardiness and must be grown in regions where frost is rare or absent.

- Irrigation / Water Needs:

Constant humidity is essential. The soil must be kept slightly moist, especially during periods of growth and fruiting. Regular watering, particularly during the summer, is recommended.

- Multiplication / Propagation:

Longan tree is mainly propagated by seeds, air layering, or cuttings. Grafting is also possible to obtain trees that produce fruit more quickly.

- Pests / Diseases:

The main pests include scale insects, thrips, and mites, which can damage leaves and fruit. Fungal diseases such as root rot or scab can also occur in cases of excess humidity or poor aeration.