Lychee — Growing reference
| Scientific name | Litchi chinensis |
|---|---|
| First harvest or flowering (days) | 1095–1825 |
| Measured from | Transplant |
| Plant spacing (cm) | 609.6–914.4 |
| Mature height (cm) | 457.2–914.4 |
| Mature spread (cm) | 457.2–762 |
| USDA hardiness zones | 9–11 |
| Light | Full sun |
| Water | Moderate |
| Sowing method | Transplant |
Growing directions
Plant a grafted or air-layered tree in deep, well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5) in a site sheltered from salt spray and drying winter wind; lychee cannot tolerate waterlogged roots at any age. Trees require a cool-dry stress period of 4–6 weeks in late autumn — nights reliably below 59°F — to trigger flower bud development, so hold irrigation during that window rather than watering on a regular schedule. Fruit clusters develop rapidly after bloom and benefit from thinning to 3–5 fruits per panicle when marble-sized to improve final fruit size and reduce limb stress. Harvest clusters when the rough, bumpy skin has turned fully red to pinkish-red and the aroma is distinctly floral and sweet, typically 90–112 days after bloom.
Source and local conditions
Typical planning ranges from OpenPlantDB (CC0). Cultivar, climate, season and growing method can change these values. Confirm the seed label and local guidance before planting.
Source & verification
OpenPlantDB · CC0