Longan, 'Kohala' (Dimocarpus longan)
Common Names: Kohala Longan, Dragon’s Eye
Family: Sapindaceae
Origin: Southeast Asia (Cultivar developed in Hawaii)
The Kohala Longan (Dimocarpus longan 'Kohala') is a highly prized tropical fruit tree known for producing clusters of small, sweet fruits that resemble lychees. The Kohala variety, developed in Hawaii, is one of the most popular longan cultivars due to its consistent fruiting, large fruit size, and exceptional flavor. The name "longan" means "dragon's eye" in Chinese, referring to the fruit’s translucent flesh and dark seed, which resembles an eye when the fruit is peeled. This exotic fruit is a favorite among tropical fruit enthusiasts and is perfect for fresh eating or adding a unique touch to desserts and beverages. Plant the unique Hawaiian Kohala Longan for plentiful harvests of branched-out bundles of juicy fruit all summer long!
Distinctive Features and Uses
Leaves: The Kohala Longan tree features glossy, dark green leaves that are pinnate, giving the tree a lush, tropical appearance. The foliage provides an attractive canopy, making the tree a beautiful ornamental addition to gardens and landscapes.
Fruits: Kohala Longans are small, round, and typically about the size of a large grape. The skin is light brown and thin, enclosing a juicy, translucent flesh that is sweet, aromatic, and slightly musky. Inside the flesh, there is a single dark seed. The fruit is often compared to lychee but has a distinct flavor of its own. Kohala Longans are perfect for fresh consumption, as well as for use in fruit salads, desserts, and tropical beverages.
Uses: Kohala Longans are highly versatile and can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or added to various culinary creations. They are often used in Asian cuisine, both in sweet and savory dishes, and are a popular ingredient in desserts, smoothies, and exotic fruit platters.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Perennial Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season | Late 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 | 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:
Kohala Longans thrive in tropical and subtropical zones (USDA 10-11). They prefer warm, humid climates but can tolerate brief cool periods. Plant in well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH of 5.5-7.0, enriched with organic matter for best results.
Planting:
Choose a sunny spot with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Plant in spring after the last frost. Space trees 20-30 feet apart, or plant in large containers with good drainage.
Watering:
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Sunlight and Fertilizing:
Ensure full sun exposure. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release formula in early spring, supplemented with potassium and magnesium every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.
Pruning and Maintenance:
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead branches and shape the tree. Maintain a weed-free area around the tree to reduce pests and diseases.
Pest and Disease Management:
Monitor for aphids, scale, and fruit borers. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for control. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent diseases.
Harvesting:
Harvest from late summer to early fall when fruit is firm and full-sized. Pick in clusters, and enjoy fresh or dried for storage.
Climate and Growing Conditions
Climate:
- Longan trees thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11. They prefer warm, humid conditions and are sensitive to frost. Longan trees can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures, but prolonged cold or frost can damage the tree or affect fruit production.
- In slightly cooler regions (zones 9+), longan trees can be grown in containers and brought indoors or into a greenhouse during colder months.
Light Requirements:
- Longans need full sun to thrive, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight is crucial for healthy growth, flowering, and fruit production.
Soil Requirements
Soil Type:
- Longan trees prefer 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, to improve fertility and water retention.
Drainage:
- Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot, a common problem in overly wet or poorly draining soils. If your soil does not drain well, consider planting longan trees on raised beds or in containers.
Planting Longan Trees
Planting Time:
- The best time to plant longan trees is in the spring, after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up. In regions with mild winters, fall planting can also be suitable.
Planting Location:
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. Ensure there is enough space for the tree to grow to its full size, which can reach 30-40 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide, depending on the variety.
Spacing:
- If planting multiple trees, space them 20-30 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Planting Method:
- Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the young tree.
- Planting: Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the base of the tree.
- Watering: Water the tree thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Watering
Watering Needs:
- Longan trees have moderate to high water needs, especially during the growing season and when fruiting. They require consistent moisture, so water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, particularly during hot or dry weather, as this can stress the tree and reduce fruit production.
Mulching:
- Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
Fertilizing
Fertilization Schedule:
- Fertilize longan trees in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and fruiting.
- During the growing season, 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.
Organic Fertilizers:
- Compost, well-rotted manure, and organic fertilizers can also be used to enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning:
- Prune longan trees in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree. Regular pruning helps maintain a manageable size, improves air circulation, and allows more sunlight to reach the inner branches, promoting better fruit production.
Thinning:
- After the tree sets fruit, it may be necessary to thin the fruit clusters to ensure larger, higher-quality fruits and prevent branches from breaking under the weight of an overly heavy crop.
Weed Control:
- Keep the area around the tree clear of weeds and debris to prevent competition for nutrients and water and to reduce the risk of pests and diseases.
Pest and Disease Management
Common Pests:
- Longan trees are susceptible to pests such as aphids, scale insects, fruit borers, and mealybugs. Monitor your tree regularly for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other appropriate organic pesticides as needed.
Common Diseases:
- Longan trees can be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and anthracnose. To minimize the risk of disease, ensure proper spacing, good air circulation, and avoid overwatering. Fungicides may be used to treat fungal infections, but prevention is key.
Harvesting Longan Fruit
Harvest Season:
- Longan fruits typically ripen from late summer to early fall, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Signs of Ripeness:
- The fruit is ready to harvest when it reaches full size, the skin turns slightly firm, and the fruit becomes fragrant. The flesh inside should be juicy and sweet.
How to Harvest:
- Harvest the fruits by gently cutting or twisting the fruit clusters from the tree. Longans are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be dried or stored in the refrigerator for a short period.
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