The flesh has a musky, sweet taste, which can be compared to the flavor of lychee fruit. The longan tree is somewhat sensitive to frost.
Where does the Longan fruit come from and where does it grow?
The Longan fruit grows on a tropical tree, not a bush. It is a member of the soapberry family (Sapindaceae) as I mentioned.
It is native to tropical Asia and China. And believed to have originated in the region between Myanmar and southern China. The longan gets its name from Cantonese which means “dragon eye.” When you take the shell off the fruit, the white flesh and dark seed in the middle kind of look like an eyeball. But don’t let that scare you away from eating them.
The earliest records date the existence of this fruit as far back as 200 BC!
The tree can grow over 100 feet high under the right soil conditions and climate. But the typical height is somewhere between 30 to 50 feet high. The tree prefers sandy soil and temperatures that don’t often go below 40 F. Although they can withstand colder temps as long as they aren’t too long.
The longan tree is grown of course in China, which is the largest producer, in India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Kampuchea, Vietnam, New Guinea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Laos, Philippines, Australia, and also in the United States.
Here in the US, the longan fruit was introduced back in the 1900s to Hawaii and Florida. They also can be grown in California, here in Arizona, southern Texas, Nevada, and Georgia. My friend here in the greater Phoenix area has a longan tree growing in his yard and it has already produced fruit for him.
Can I freeze Longan fruit?
Yes, you sure can. Place the fruit still in its peel in a freezer bag or an airtight container and freeze them. They will last 9 months to a year when frozen.
How to eat Longan fruit | What does Longan Taste like
FAQ
What does longan do to your body?
Is longan fruit sweet or sour?
Is longan better than lychee?
What does longan fruit taste like?
The longan fruit is very juicy, mostly water, and high in natural sugar content, so it is very sweet. The translucent flesh has the consistency of a grape and it also tastes grape-like. There are tropical flavors as well, with a hint of musky flavor. But the musk flavor isn’t unpleasant.
Are longan nutritious?
Longan fruit is an exotic fruit. It is very healthy due to its vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water. In addition, it has antioxidant properties that help maintain the health of the heart and intestines.
How to eat longan fruit?
In order to enjoy the longan fruit, it is best to consume it fresh and raw. Simply peel off the outer skin and remove the black seed within. Longan can also be used in various recipes, such as fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts, or even combined with savory dishes to add an exotic twist.
How long does longan fruit last?
Fresh longan will last around 2 to 3 weeks if stored in the refrigerator or about a week if stored at room temperature. Can I freeze Longan fruit? Yes, you sure can. Place the fruit still in its peel in a freezer bag or an airtight container and freeze them. They will last 9 months to a year when frozen.