Longan (kohala) - Advanced 80-100cm

The Kohala longan is a popular and commercially grown variety of longan (Dimocarpus longan), originally developed in Hawaii. It's known for its vigorous growth, high productivity, and excellent fruit quality.

🌳 Tree Description:

Size & Growth Habit: Medium to large, spreading canopy; grows 30–40 feet tall if unpruned. Can be maintained smaller with regular pruning.

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast.

Leaves: Evergreen, glossy, dark green, pinnately compound with 4–10 leaflets.

Cold Tolerance: More cold-sensitive than lychee but can tolerate light frosts once mature (USDA zones 10–11).

Flowering Season: Spring to early summer (depending on climate).

Pollination: Typically self-pollinating but may benefit from cross-pollination to increase yield.

🍈 Fruit Description:

Appearance:

Size: Medium to large (2.5–3.5 cm diameter).

Shape: Round to slightly oval.

Skin: Light brown, thin, slightly rough texture, easy to peel when ripe.

Seed: Shiny black and round, giving the fruit its nickname "dragon's eye."

Flesh: Color: Translucent white to off-white.

Texture: Firm, juicy, slightly chewy.

Flavor: Sweet, mildly musky, with a floral aroma; less acidic than lychee.

Brix (sugar content): Around 18–21, indicating a rich, sweet taste.

Harvest Time: Typically mid to late summer (July to September), depending on the region.

🌱 Cultivation Notes:

Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil; tolerant of a wide range of soil types with good fertility.

Watering: Moderate; sensitive to overwatering but needs consistent moisture during fruit development.

Fertilization: Benefits from balanced fertilization (NPK) with higher potassium during flowering/fruiting.

Pruning: Recommended to control size and encourage branching and fruiting.