Litchi chinensis, commonly known as the lychee, is a tropical fruit tree native to the subtropical regions of Southeast Asia. This iconic tree can grow to a height of 10 to 15 metres and is characterised by its dense, evergreen foliage made up of tough, oval-shaped leaves. Young leaves emerge with a bronze to reddish hue, gradually turning dark green as they mature. During its flowering season, the lychee produces small white or greenish blossoms clustered in loose panicles, which attract a wide variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
The lychee fruit is easily identifiable by its rough, reddish skin, which encloses a juicy, translucent white flesh. This flesh, highly valued for its sweet and slightly musky flavour, is rich in vitamins C and A, as well as dietary fibre. More than just a treat for the taste buds, the lychee also offers notable nutritional benefits.
The tree thrives in warm, humid climates, though it can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures. Its slow growth and preference for well-drained soil make it particularly suited to structured green spaces. Beyond its practical advantages, the lychee tree also adds aesthetic value to tropical gardens, offering a stunning visual display through its striking blooms and vividly coloured fruit. Valued both for its beauty and utility, Litchi chinensis is often a centrepiece in landscaped gardens surrounding lodges or hotels—such as those offered by Au Bois Vert.
Plant use
Litchi chinensis is valued not only for its ornamental appeal but also for its wide range of culinary and medicinal uses. In the kitchen, its juicy, sweet flesh makes for a refreshing snack, whether eaten on its own or added to fruit salads, desserts, and even savoury dishes, particularly in Asian cuisine. Lychee is also used in the preparation of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, such as syrups and cocktails, lending them an exotic and fragrant twist. In herbal medicine, lychee is known for its antioxidant properties, thanks to its high levels of vitamin C and polyphenols. Various parts of the plant, including the seeds and bark, are used in traditional medicine to support digestion and boost the immune system. The health benefits of lychee are also embraced as part of a broader wellness experience, complementing the relaxing atmosphere found in establishments like the restaurants and lodges near Ivato and Antananarivo. In a landscaped setting, this tree blends beautifully into a botanical garden. Its specific growing requirements help raise awareness among visitors about the importance of tropical biodiversity. Nature and food enthusiasts alike can enjoy freshly harvested local fruit while appreciating its natural beauty during their stay at Au Bois Vert.
Key information
| Common name | Lychee |
| Scientific name | Litchi chinensis |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Natural habitat | Tropical/subtropical regions |
| Life cycle | Perennial |
| Flowering period | Spring |
