An overview of litchi production

In this article, we look at who the biggest litchi producers are in the world, the cultural significance of this popular fruit, and the most popular litchi cultivars globally.

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The litchi (Litchi chinensis) is a tropical fruit known for its sweet and fragrant flavour. Native to Southeast Asia, it is cultivated in various parts of the world with suitable climatic conditions. Litchi trees require a subtropical to tropical climate, with warm and humid conditions for optimal growth.

According to data from September 2021, China is the largest producer, accounting for about 80% of the world’s litchi production. Within China, the provinces of Guangdong, Fujian and Guangxi are major litchi-growing regions.

Other significant litchi-producing countries are India, Thailand, Vietnam and Madagascar.

The litchi is a seasonal fruit, with the harvest season typically falling in the late spring to early summer, depending on the specific region and local climate. The exact timing of the harvest can vary from one location to another.

FAST FACTS

• The litchi is a tropical fruit that is popular for its sweet and fragrant flavour. It is native to Southeast Asia. 
• There are several popular varieties that produce goodsized, sweet fruit.
• Litchi trees need ample water, but don’t like wet feet. Therefore, well-draining soil is essential.

Depending on the variety, litchi trees can grow up to 12m tall. They have a wide canopy, says Florida, US litchi tree nursery Sow Exotic. It adds that despite its large size, the tree is relatively easy to prune and size as needed. Sow Exotic adds that litchi trees prefer well-drained, rich soil. Irrigation is essential for the early success of this tree, as well-draining soil is essential for litchi tree growth and they do very well planted on mounds to promote drainage, it adds.