Production and research of longan in China

Longan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.) is one of the most important subtropical fruit trees and a famous special product of south China. Guangxi, Guangdong, Fujian and Taiwan are the major producing areas. According to statistics, the area under cultivation and yield per annum have reached 444,400 ha and 495,800 t respectively by the end of 1997. There are more than 400 cultivars among which early-maturing cultivars account for 14%, midseason 68% and late-maturing 18%. This paper discusses the major problems in China longan production and research during the past 50 years. The topics cover the latest development of production, germplasm resources and breeding biotechnology, biological and physiological investigations and cultural practices for stable high yield and quality. Diseases, pests and post-harvest fruit storage are also reviewed.