Dimocarpus longan — Lamyai — Dragon’s Eye
Dimocarpus longan, also known as longan or dragon’s eye, is a fruit native to Southeast Asia. It’s an evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 meters tall and has a round-topped crown of dense leaves. The fruit is a drupe, about 1–3 cm in diameter, with a smooth to warty, granular-to-the-touch surface. The outer skin is yellow-brown when ripe, and the flesh is white and translucent. Inside is a single, dark brown seed.
Longans are known for their sweet, musky flavor and are often used in desserts, soups, and salads. They’re also a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
In Thailand, longans are a popular seasonal fruit. They’re typically in season from June to August, but you can sometimes find them in markets year-round. When buying longans, choose fruits that are plump and have a slightly spongy feel. Avoid fruits that are too hard or have brown or wrinkled skin.
To eat a longan, simply peel the outer skin and remove the seed. The flesh can be eaten fresh or used in recipes.