Sarasota Fruit & Nut Society
Photos by Debra Sims unless otherwise noted
Dorsett Apple Malus pumila - Native to West Asia
An upright tree of rapid growth to 15-18 ft. Requires full sun, well-drained soil and is very cold hardy. Trees must be grafted and cross-pollination is required with a another variety such as Anna or Ein Shemer. Apples fruit in late May to mid-August. Fruit may be eaten fresh, dried, frozen, juiced. Excellent in pies, sauces, salads.
Aka "dragon's eye" and "little brother of the lychee". A well-shaped, round topped evergreen with dark, glossy foliage which grows to a height of 30-40 ft. Longans prefer dry, cool winters and hot springs and summers. They like full sun and moisture during fruit set and are wind hardy. A mature tree can stand temperatures down to 24 degrees. Propagation is by air-layer or grafting since seeds do not grow true to type and can take up to 20 years to bear. Fruiting season is July to August. The longan is smaller than a lychee and hangs in loose clusters of between 10 to 80 plus fruit. They are yellow-brown or greenish-brown when mature with smooth, leathery skins and sweet, white or translucent flesh. They are similar in flavor to the lychee but a bit stronger, muskier and somewhat spicy. Some varieties are soft and juicy while others are crisp and crunchy. Longans freeze well and can be eaten fresh or dried.
Photo by Edward Lin