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Longan

Longan is a tropical fruit tree species, scientifically known as *Dimocarpus longan*, in the soapberry family Sapindaceae.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Longan is a tropical fruit tree species, scientifically known as Dimocarpus longan, in the soapberry family Sapindaceae. It produces small, round edible fruit with translucent white pulp and a glossy dark seed, a look that gives rise to the name “dragon’s eye.” It is native to Southeast Asia and southern China and is cultivated in many warm regions.

Description

Longan is an evergreen tropical fruit tree that produces clusters of small fruit. The fruit has thin brown skin, translucent white flesh, and a single glossy seed.

Taxonomy and relatives

The species is Dimocarpus longan in the family Sapindaceae. It is closely related to lychee and rambutan, which are also members of this family.

Origin and cultivation

Longan is native to Southeast Asia and southern China and is cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions. Commercial production is especially associated with parts of Asia, and the fruit has also been introduced to other warm areas.

Culinary use

Longan is eaten fresh and is also sold dried or canned in syrup. It is used in desserts and other dishes in many East and Southeast Asian cuisines.

Key facts

  • Longan is a tropical tree species that produces edible fruit.
  • It belongs to the soapberry family, which also includes lychee and rambutan.
  • The fruit is usually round, with pale flesh surrounding a dark seed.
  • Longan is native to Southeast Asia and southern China, though it is grown in other warm regions.
  • The fruit is commonly sold fresh, dried, or canned in syrup.
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Canadian context

Longan is sold in some Canadian specialty produce markets and Asian grocery stores, where it is usually imported fresh, dried, or canned.

Frequently asked questions

What is longan?
Longan is a tropical fruit tree species, *Dimocarpus longan*, that produces edible fruit.
Why is longan called “dragon’s eye”?
The peeled fruit resembles an eye because of its pale flesh and dark seed in the centre.
What does longan taste like?
Its flesh is described as mildly sweet and musky.
What family does longan belong to?
It belongs to the Sapindaceae, or soapberry, family.
Where is longan native to?
It is native to Southeast Asia and southern China.
How is longan used?
It is commonly eaten fresh, dried, or canned in syrup.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longan
    Supports: Scientific name, family, common names, and native range.
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/plant/longan
    Supports: Description, flavour, family, and common forms of sale.
  3. Simple English Wikipedia — https://www.simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longan
    Supports: Fruit appearance and the origin of the name 'dragon's eye'.
  4. National Parks Board (Singapore) — https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/2/8/2848
    Supports: Tree characteristics and fruit description.
  5. GBIF — https://www.gbif.org/species/113655656
    Supports: Taxonomic identity and native range.
  6. Missouri Botanical Garden — https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286822
    Supports: Common names, tree type, and native range.