Mauritius is the variety that put Florida lychee on the map. It ripens in May and June and produces reliably across the state. The harvest window is short -- only a few weeks -- which makes fresh lychee from a backyard tree one of the most anticipated events in a tropical gardener's year.
Intensely sweet with a floral, rose-water fragrance and a satisfyingly juicy burst. The small pit leaves room for plenty of white translucent flesh. Nothing in the produce aisle compares to a lychee picked at peak ripeness.
Lychee
Florida's most beloved lychee -- intensely sweet for a few precious weeks
Harvest Season
May, June
Mature Height
20–30 ft
Sun
Full sun
Care Level
Challenging
Cold Hardiness for Central Florida
Young trees are very frost-sensitive; protect below 32F for the first 3 years. Established trees tolerate brief dips to 25-28F and actually need some winter cool to trigger flowering.
3G
Approx. 1.5–2.5 ft tall today
First harvest: 5–8 years
In stock
$50
(407) 963-0165 or (407) 403-9124 to confirm current stock before visiting.
Timeline is an estimate from a 3-gallon container. Larger sizes start further along. Data unverified - owner review pending.
