Lychee plant - Marcotted

Lychee (Litchi chinensis) is an evergreen tree belonging to the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), cultivated for its delectable fruit. Indigenous to Southeast Asia, this fruit has been cherished by the Cantonese since ancient times. While commonly consumed fresh, lychee can also be preserved through canning or drying processes. The fresh pulp boasts an aromatic and musky flavor, while the dried version is characterised by its acidity and pronounced sweetness.

Lychee plants flourish in warm and humid tropical and subtropical climates, thriving best in regions where temperatures remain above 0°C to avoid frost damage. Ideally suited to areas with distinct dry seasons, lychee trees benefit from these conditions to induce flowering. The temperature range for optimal growth spans from 21°C to 32°C, with a requirement for cooler temperatures below 20°C during the flowering phase. Ensuring full sun exposure is vital, with lychee plants requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. 

This particular Lychee plant has been propagated through air layering from a mature outdoor fruit-bearing tree in the Northland region.