Native & adapted

Lychee

Litchi chinensis

Also known as Litchi · Lichee · Vải

Prized for its fragrant, juicy fruit. Lychee can grow in Phoenix as a slow, small tree with afternoon shade, but crops are less reliable than longan.

EdibleFruitingEvergreenContainer friendly

Landscape layersLower canopy

Mature size8–15 ft tall and 8–15 ft wide in Phoenix

Climate fitUrban core · USDA 9b–10a · Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b

Plant spacing12–15 ft from other trees

FrostYoung trees damaged near 32°F; mature trees survive brief dips to about 28°F.

Special categoriesEDIBLE

Hardiness guidanceUSDA 10–11; mature trees take brief dips to about 28°F

Winter chillNone, but it needs a cool, dry winter spell to flower

Typical harvestLate spring to early summer, usually May and June.

Before you plant

These conditions determine whether it will thrive.

Soil chemistry

Slightly acidic, rich, fast-draining soil. Add soil sulfur and compost generously; use low-salt water if possible.

Required microclimatePlacement is part of the growing system.

Afternoon shade, shelter from hot dry wind, and frost cover in winter.

Right plant, right place

Will Lychee grow at your Arizona property?

Air-layered trees fruit sooner. Phoenix's dry heat is hard on it, so a sheltered courtyard gives the best results.

Best regional fit: Urban core · USDA 9b–10a, Valley suburbs · USDA 9a–9b.

Light

Sun exposure

Morning sun with afternoon shade from June through September, such as the east side of a house or under a taller nurse tree. Protect from frost on winter nights.

Water

Irrigation

Moderate and steady through summer. Dry it down a little from late fall to midwinter to trigger flowering.

Fruit set

Pollination

Self-fertile; bees help set fruit.

Harvest

How to use it

Fresh, frozen or dried.

Planting & stewardship

How to help Lychee thrive

1
Keep it shaded and well mulched in summer.
2
Limit water and nitrogen from November to January so it flowers in spring.
3
Leach the soil with a deep watering every month or two to flush salts.
4
Cover with frost cloth on nights below 32°F.

Read the horticultural reference ↗