Dimocarpus is a noun that refers to a genus of flowering plants in the soapberry family, Sapindaceae. It is commonly known as the longan tree. The term "dimocarpus" is derived from the Greek words "di," meaning two, and "karpos," meaning fruit, which aptly describes the characteristic of this genus, as its fruits can typically be found in pairs.
The dimocarpus genus includes several species of evergreen trees, native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. These trees are known for their medium to large size, reaching heights of up to 30 meters (98 feet) with spreading crowns. They feature a smooth, grayish-brown bark, and compound leaves composed of glossy, dark green leaflets.
The most well-known species within the dimocarpus genus is Dimocarpus longan, commonly referred to as the longan tree. Longan trees produce small, round fruits, usually measuring about 2 centimeters in diameter. The fruits have a thin, leathery skin, which is smooth and light brown in color. Once peeled, the translucent flesh of the fruit is white and juicy, with a sweet, musky flavor. Longan fruits are often consumed fresh, used in desserts, or incorporated into traditional medicinal practices due to their perceived health benefits.
In summary, dimocarpus is a genus of evergreen trees known for their pairs of small, sweet fruits. These trees are native to Asia and belong to the soapberry family.
