Lychee, (Litchi chinensis), also spelled litchi or lichi, evergreen tree of the soapberry family (Sapindaceae), grown for its edible fruit. Lychee is native to Southeast Asia and has been a favourite fruit of the Cantonese since ancient times. The fruit is usually eaten fresh but can also be canned or dried.

These may help protect against heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

Lychees contain several healthy minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, such as potassium, copper, vitamin C, epicatechin, and rutin.

Lychee fruit cannot be kept for more than a few days after harvest, at room temperature. If marketing is delayed fruits should be kept in cold storage where they can be stored in good condition for 3-4 weeks.