longans

Longans are small, round to oval fruits native to Southeast Asia. They belong to the soapberry family, Sapindaceae, which also includes lychees and rambutans. The name "longan" is derived from the Cantonese word for "dragon's eye," a reference to the fruit's translucent white flesh surrounding a dark seed, resembling an eyeball.

The fruit typically grows in clusters on trees that can reach up to 12 meters in height. The skin is thin, smooth, and leathery, changing from green to a yellowish-brown or reddish-brown when ripe. Beneath the skin, the flesh is juicy, sweet, and slightly tart, with a musky aroma. The single, dark brown or black seed is inedible.

Longans are commonly eaten fresh, peeled to reveal the succulent flesh. They can also be dried, canned, or used in various culinary preparations, including desserts, jams, and beverages. In traditional Chinese medicine, longans are believed to have calming properties and are used to treat insomnia and anxiety.

Nutritionally, longans are a good source of vitamin C and contain various antioxidants. They are also relatively low in calories. The cultivation of longans has spread beyond Southeast Asia to other tropical and subtropical regions, including Australia, the United States, and parts of Africa.