Litchi chinensis
TAXONOMY
FamilySapindaceae
GenusLitchi
Zone10
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Litchi chinensis, commonly known as lychee, is a tropical tree native to the Guangdong and Fujian provinces of China. It produces small, fleshy fruits that are popular for their sweet and aromatic flavor. The tree thrives in wet tropical climates and can grow up to 15-20 meters tall. It belongs to the family Sapindaceae and the genus Litchi.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Corvinia Litschi
Euphoria Didyma
Euphoria Punicea
Euphoria Sinensis
Leechee
Lichi
Lychee
Mamoncillo Chino
Nephelium Chinense
Nephelium Didymum
Sapindus Edulis
Scytalia Litschi
Scytalia Squamosa
Euphoria litchi
Litchi
Litchi chinensis var. euspontanea
Litchi sinensis
Nephelium litchi
Scytalia chinensis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Wet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
GDD2,250
pH5.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Lychee trees require bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. They thrive in warm, humid environments with moderate temperatures. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil consistently moist. Ensure the tree is protected from strong winds and frost.Harvest
Litchi chinensis, commonly known as lychee, should be harvested when the fruits are fully mature and have developed their characteristic red color. This typically occurs in late spring to early summer. To harvest, use pruning shears to cut the fruit clusters from the tree, ensuring to leave a small portion of the stem attached to the fruit to prevent damage. It is important to handle the fruits gently to avoid bruising. Post-harvest, lychees should be stored in a cool, humid environment to maintain their freshness and prolong shelf life.Soil
Lychee trees prefer well-draining loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for optimal growth.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the tree every 6-8 weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and fruit production.Repotting
Young lychee trees can be repotted every 2-3 years to accommodate their growing root system. Choose a larger pot with good drainage and fresh, nutrient-rich soil. Repotting is best done in the early spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Lychee trees can be propagated through air layering or grafting. Air layering is typically done in the spring or early summer. Select a healthy branch, make a small cut, and wrap it with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap until roots develop.Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of the lychee tree. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove dead or diseased branches and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.Toxicity
Lychee trees are not toxic to pets or humans. However, the seeds should not be consumed as they can be mildly toxic if ingested in large quantities.Additional
Lychee trees benefit from mulching to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent rot.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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