Lychee (Litchi chinensis)

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal fruiting; partial shade can protect young trees from extreme heat

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Watering Water deeply and regularly during active growth and fruiting seasons; allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot

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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical to subtropical climates; temperatures below 10°C can damage young trees and inhibit flowering

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Leaf: Glossy, leathery pinnate leaves with 2–4 pairs of elliptical leaflets; dark green above, pale green beneath
Flower: Small, yellow-green panicles with hundreds of tiny, fragrant blooms
Fruit: Round, rough-textured red rind enclosing translucent white sweet aril and large brown seed

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Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during fruit development

Fertilization

Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4 weeks to support flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can reduce fruiting and cause leaf burn

Banana peel compost tea：Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 3 days, dilute 1:20, and use as a root drench to boost fruit production

Pruning

Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches in late winter before new growth begins
Thin overcrowded inner branches to improve air circulation and light penetration for fruiting
Trim excessive new growth to maintain a manageable tree height and encourage fruiting wood development

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Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Seeds are toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, and potential hypoglycemia

Humans: Seeds contain hypoglycin A; ingestion of large amounts may cause abdominal pain, nausea, and hypoglycemia; flesh is safe to eat

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Culture: Symbolizes good fortune, romance, and family reunion in Chinese and Southeast Asian cultures

Usage: Commercial and home fruit production; ornamental shade tree in tropical landscapes