Longan, Pink 'Sri Chompoo' (Dimocarpus longan)
Regular price $99.95Common Names: Sri Chompoo Longan, Pink Longan
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Thailand
The Sri Chompoo Longan (Dimocarpus longan) is a highly sought-after variety of longan known for its exceptionally sweet flavor, juicy flesh, and unique pinkish hue. Originating in Thailand, the Sri Chompoo Longan is cherished for its larger fruit size, almost translucent flesh, and high-quality taste. This tropical fruit tree is perfect for home gardeners who want to enjoy the exotic flavors of the tropics right in their backyard.
Distinctive Features and Uses
Fruits: Sri Chompoo Longans are small to medium-sized, with a thin, light brown shell that is easy to peel. Inside, the flesh is juicy, sweet, and almost translucent, with a slight pinkish tint that gives this variety its name. The flavor is rich and sweet, often compared to lychee but with a more subtle, honey-like taste. The fruit is perfect for fresh eating, adding to fruit salads, or using in desserts where its delicate sweetness can shine. Sri Chompoo Longans are also great for drying or preserving, extending their enjoyment beyond the fresh fruit season.
Leaves: The tree features glossy, dark green leaves that are evergreen, adding a lush, tropical appearance year-round. The foliage is dense, providing ample shade and a beautiful canopy in the garden.
Growth Habit: Sri Chompoo Longan trees are vigorous and can grow up to 30-40 feet tall in optimal conditions, though they can be pruned to maintain a more manageable size. The tree is highly productive, often yielding an abundant harvest in late summer to early fall.
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 |
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Perennial Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season | Late Spring to Early Summer |
| Mature Size | 20-30 feet feet tall, 20-25 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: Shri Chompoo Lychees 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. Shri Chompoo Lychees perform best in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
- 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 20-25 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. Shri Chompoo Lychees have moderate to high water needs, especially during the growing season and fruiting period. 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 to Partial Shade: Ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In extremely hot climates, some afternoon shade can be beneficial.
- 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: Shri Chompoo Lychees 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: Shri Chompoo Lychees 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: Shri Chompoo Lychees typically ripen from late spring to early summer. The fruit is ready to pick when it reaches full size, the skin turns a vibrant pinkish-red, and the fruit becomes slightly soft to the touch.
- 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. Lychees can also be dried for longer storage.
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