Litchi, << LEE chee, >> is an evergreen tree that bears red fruit. Its name is also spelled leechee, liche, lichi, litchee, and lychee. The litchi originated in southern China, where it has been cultivated for its fruit for over 2,000 years. Litchis also are grown commercially in Australia, India, South Africa, Florida, and Hawaii.
The litchi fruit is round and ranges from 1/2 inch to 11/2 inches (1.3 to 3.8 centimeters) in diameter. It has rough, papery red skin and juicy, white flesh with a single brown seed. The fruit is rich in vitamin C. It usually is eaten fresh but may be canned in light syrup. The fruit also may be dried like raisins. When prepared this way, it is called litchi nut.
Litchi trees grow best in subtropical areas in deep, well-drained soil. They may grow up to 50 feet (15 meters) high.
