Dimocarpus longan longan Lour.
| Etymology | Genus | From Greek, dis (two) and karpos (fruit), possibly referring to the two-lobed pistil |
|---|---|---|
| Species | After the Mandarin common name of the fruit, Dragon's Eye | |
| Family | Sapindaceae | |
| Synonyms | - | |
| Common Names | Longan, Dragon's Eye | |
| Status | Native: Data Deficient | |
| Form | Shrub | |
| Native Distribution | China | |
Diagnostics
Dimocarpus longan ssp. (subspecies) longan is a shrub easily recognisable by its foliage. The leaflets are frequently curved inwards and the lower surface is smooth because of fine hairs.Another subspecies Dimocarpus longan ssp. malesianus is a tree with large leaves, quite commonly found in abandoned plantations turned forests now.
Interesting Facts
This Longan subspecies is the one commonly cultivated by residents in Singapore for their edible fruits.
The form of the Longan. Note the distinct foliage characterised by their rolled leaves.
A pinnate leaf, where each leaflet is strongly curved.
The inflorescence.
Leaflet front and back (where it is hairy).
Fruits.
Siyang ·
2017-06-03 / Modified: 2025-10-27