Longan, 'Biew Kiew' (Dimocarpus longan)
Regular price $99.95Common Names: Biew Kiew Longan, Thai Longan
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Thailand
The Biew Kiew Longan (Dimocarpus longan 'Biew Kiew') is a highly sought-after tropical fruit variety from Thailand, known for its exceptionally sweet and juicy fruits. Often called the "Dragon’s Eye" due to the appearance of its translucent flesh and dark seed, the Biew Kiew Longan stands out among longan varieties for its reliable fruiting, large fruit size, and superior flavor. This longan is a favorite among tropical fruit enthusiasts and is perfect for fresh eating or incorporating into desserts and beverages.
Distinctive Features and Uses
Leaves: The Biew Kiew Longan tree has glossy, dark green, pinnate leaves that contribute to its lush, tropical appearance. The foliage is dense and forms an attractive canopy, making the tree a beautiful ornamental addition to any garden.
Fruits: Biew Kiew Longans are small to medium-sized, with a light brown, thin, and slightly rough skin that is easy to peel. The flesh inside is translucent, juicy, and exceptionally sweet, with a pleasant, mildly floral aroma. The fruit is often enjoyed fresh, thanks to its refreshing and sweet taste, which is similar to lychee but with its own unique flavor profile. Biew Kiew Longans are ideal for fresh consumption, fruit salads, and adding a tropical twist to desserts and beverages.
Uses: Biew Kiew Longans are versatile and can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or used in various culinary creations. They are often used in Asian cuisine, both in sweet and savory dishes, and are popular in desserts, smoothies, and fruit salads. The fruit's appealing appearance and delicious taste also make it a great addition to exotic fruit platters.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Perennial Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season | Last Summer to Early Fall |
| Mature Size | 30-40 feet feet tall, 20-30 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture | Well-draining, sandy loam soil; moderate to high watering needs |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate |
| Self-fertile | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection until well-established; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation | Air-layered and capable of producing fruit from within this growing season to up to 2 years. |
Full Growing Guide
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Biew Kiew Longans thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11. The tree prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, with consistent rainfall or irrigation. In slightly cooler regions, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors or into a greenhouse during colder months.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0). The tree benefits from soil enriched with organic matter, such as compost, but excellent drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Biew Kiew Longans perform best in full sun, which is essential for vigorous growth and abundant fruit production.
- Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by tilling and adding compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant in the spring after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up. If planting in containers, ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate the tree’s growth and has adequate drainage.
- Spacing: Space trees 20-30 feet apart to allow adequate room for growth and air circulation.
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Biew Kiew Longans have moderate to high water needs, especially during the growing season. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, particularly during hot weather.
- Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun: Ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and fruit production.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Supplement with additional nutrients such as potassium and magnesium, which are important for fruit development. Fertilize every 6-8 weeks during the growing season for best results.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Routine Pruning: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Regular pruning helps to maintain a manageable size and promotes better air circulation and light penetration.
- Maintenance: Biew Kiew Longans are relatively low-maintenance once established. Keep the area around the tree clear of weeds and debris to prevent pests and diseases.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Monitor for pests such as aphids, scale, and fruit borers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Diseases: Biew Kiew Longans are relatively disease-resistant, but it’s important to watch for signs of root rot and leaf spot. Ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overwatering to reduce disease risk.
Harvesting Fruit
- When to Harvest: Biew Kiew Longans typically ripen from late summer to early fall. The fruit is ready to pick when it reaches full size, the skin turns slightly firm, and the fruit becomes fragrant.
- How to Harvest: Gently cut or twist the fruit clusters from the tree. Enjoy the fruit fresh, or store it for a short period in a cool place. Longans can also be dried for longer storage.
Growing Tips
Also known as: Kohala Longan, Sri Champoo Longan, Dragon’s Eye, Si Chom Poo
Plant Kohala and Sri Champoo Longan in full sun with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight and provide fertile, well-draining soil. Longans prefer consistent moisture during active growth and fruiting, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Mulch around the tree to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, keeping mulch away from the trunk. Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and supplement during the growing season as needed. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove damaged growth, improve airflow, and maintain a manageable shape. If heavy fruit clusters develop, thinning some fruit can encourage larger, higher-quality fruit. Harvest when the fruit reaches full size and develops a fragrant aroma, sweet flavor, and juicy flesh. Both varieties thrive in warm tropical and subtropical climates and are best suited to Zones 10–11. In Zone 9 and cooler areas, grow in a container or greenhouse where the tree can be protected from prolonged cold and frost.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Dimocarpus longan |
| Common Names | Kohala Longan, Sri Champoo Longan, Dragon’s Eye, Si Chom Poo |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia; Kohala cultivar developed in Hawaii |
| Plant Type | Tropical Fruit Tree |
| Life Cycle | Perennial, Evergreen |
| Mature Size | 30–40 ft. tall; 20–30 ft. wide |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun |
| Soil | Fertile, well-draining soil; sandy loam preferred |
| Soil pH | 5.5–7.0 |
| Water Needs | Moderate to High; consistent moisture |
| Bloom Time | Spring |
| Harvest Season | Summer to Early Fall |
| Fruit | Round, golden-brown fruit produced in clusters |
| Fruit Flesh | Translucent, juicy; Sri Champoo can develop pink coloration when fully mature |
| Fruit Flavor | Sweet, aromatic, honey-like with rich tropical notes |
| Self-Fertile | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| USDA Zones | 10–11; Zone 9+ with protection |
| Propagation | Seed |
| Special Features | Highly productive, sweet aromatic fruit, evergreen tropic |
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
We ship every plant plastic-free and planet-friendly—using compostable packaging, recyclable pots, and carbon-conscious shipping from start to finish. 🌎🌱👉 Our Commitment to Packaging & Shipping Sustainability
