Fascinating Facts - Litchis
- Litchi is a member of the soapberry family.
- The litchi has an Oriental origin, and is most grown in southern China and Southeast Asia. It has been cultivated for over two thousand years.
- Litchi fruits are found in loose clusters ranging from 3-50 fruits which grow on a tree.
- The fruit is round to oval in shape.
- Litchi skin resembles a bumpy leathery strawberry with short, conical or rounded protuberances.
- The fruit skin color ranges from yellow to pinkish or red.
- The edible portion of the fruit, the pulp is succulent, white and translucent.
- Litchi fruits contain one shiny, dark brown seed.
- A little known fact is that the seed of the litchi is toxic, and while the fruit itself is a great aid for digestion, the seed can wreak havoc with the digestive system. Ensure that you do not consume the seed.
- Apart from being eaten fresh, this fruit can also be eaten dried. When eaten dried, the fruit gives a smoky flavor. It is also available in a canned form.