Lychee, Longan and other Sapindaceae Fruits

Lychee (Litchi chinensis), longan (Dimocarpus longan) and rambutan (Nephelium lappacium) are major fruit crops belonging to the Sapindaceae family. These exotic fruit crops have been cultivated as commercial crops for more than 50 years in South-East Asia, especially in China. Major production areas in the northern hemisphere are China, Vietnam and Thailand, and in the southern hemisphere; Australia and South Africa, including island countries such as Mauritius. Fruits can be consumed either fresh or processed. In recent years, the demand has increased whereas supply has decreased due to climate change. This challenges producers around the world to fulfill the world demand.

The International Society for Horticultural Science has created a Working Group and has organized symposia on Lychee, Longan and Other Sapindaceae fruits since 2000. The symposia have been attended by researchers, academics, producers, extension advisors and other stakeholders from all over the world, who came to network, learn and share information and their experience in all aspects of these fruit trees, from farm to table.

This Working Group deals with the following aspects of lychee, longan and other Sapindaceae:

• production and technology, including plant propagation,
• genetics, biotechnology and cultivar improvement,
• physiology and flower induction,
• disease and pest management,
• postharvest technology and food processing,
• marketing logistics and trade,
• remote sensing and smart farm facilities.