Description
The Mauritius litchi tree is the primary commercial cultivar and bears more regularly than any other variety. Litchi trees grow very quickly and are very large.
These little fruits have a spiny pink shell and soft white flesh with a distinctly tropical flavour. They’re moreish and best enjoyed fresh or in a spicy curry.
Litchis have dietary fibre, magnesium, manganese, copper, phosphorous, and iron. They are great for weight loss and contribute towards stronger bones and an efficient digestive system.
Position
Litchi trees cannot tolerate frost or wind, preferring a location next to a sunny, wind-sheltered wall that produces a warm microclimate. Frost cover does not protect sufficiently in cold and frosty climates. They will need to be taken indoors or put into a greenhouse.
Plant a Litchi tree in full sun for best results.
If you plant a litchi tree in a container in an area with sunlight on only one side, turn the tree as often as possible.
Plant at least three metres away from other trees, buildings, and power lines.
Litchi trees grow very well in very large containers that providing room for root development —at least a 100 cm pot with enough drainage holes is essential. Glazed pots require far less watering than raw terracotta pots due to their porous nature.
Soil Type
Litchis thrive in deep, fertile, well-draining soil. Use an acidic soil of pH 5.0 to 5.5. A higher pH level is acceptable, but the tree will not grow as well.
The soil needs to drain well as litchi trees’ roots do not like to be wet and will rot if allowed to sit in water for extended periods. A soil, sand, and perlite mixture is highly recommended for proper drainage.
Harvesting
Litchi fruits grow in bunches and should be picked only when the skin is a pink colour.
