Litchi chinensis

photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr

Best practices for survivability and field observations

A dense shade tree. Several noted that the species needs a cooler climate (for example: orchards near Helemano), wetter conditions, while others have observed it in yards and private properties. One respondent said that it makes a lot of leaf litter (which could be a fuel issue). As with mango, maximizing fruit production requires limiting exposure to wind and pests. Another respondent noted that “too much nitrogen leading up to flowering will keep it in vegetative stage and therefore it will not set flower and produce fruit.”

Stressors and pests

Pest include fruit flies and Erinose mite. Trees are fairly brittle and may break in high winds or heavy rains.

Availability and propagation

Not abundantly available. One respondent noted that it is slow growing from propagation (even from grafting). Others note that seeds will germinate easily, but recommend air layering for good fruit (best varieties are grafted). Another successful propagation method included “rooted cuttings under intermittent mist.”

Survey Results

For information about the survey, refer to our article: on Coastal Plants for Creating Green Breaks