Lychee (or litchi), a juicy little gem, has been tantalizing taste buds across the globe for centuries. With its fragrant aroma and succulent flesh, this fruit is a summer staple in many tropical regions.

But did you know that lychee comes in many varieties, each with its own flair? Let’s take a juicy trip around the world to explore some of the top lychee varieties that are bursting with flavor!

The Sweet Mauritius from China to the World

The Mauritius Lychee is a global superstar. Originally from China, it’s now widely cultivated in regions like India and South Africa. Its bright red skin and juicy translucent flesh make it a fan favorite. It is also very versatile as you can either eat it fresh or toss it into a fruit salad, as this variety packs a sweet punch with every bite.

Brewster: A Classic in the Lychee Scene

Brewster Lychees are the perfect blend of tangy and sweet. Hailing from southern China, this variety has made its way to the U.S. where it thrives in Florida’s subtropical climate. With its juicy, grape-like texture, this variety is great for enjoying fresh or even as a zesty addition to drinks.

Emperor Lychee: The Royal Choice

As the name suggests, the Emperor variety reigns supreme. Known for its large size and intense flavor, this lychee is a favorite in both Asia and Hawaii. With a sweeter taste than other varieties, it’s perfect for anyone with a royal-sized sweet tooth. It’s the king of the lychee world, and rightly so!

Exotic Varieties: Kaimana and Hak Ip

If you’re craving something a bit more exotic, the Kaimana variety from Hawaii offers a sweet and slightly acidic flavor. On the other hand, Hak Ip, also known as Black Leaf Lychee from Taiwan, has a darker red skin and a taste that's an intriguing mix of sweet and tart. Both of these varieties are perfect for those wanting to try lychees with an interesting twist!

Sweetheart Lychee: Perfect for Romance

As the name suggests, the Sweetheart variety brings some romance to the lychee game. With its smaller size and deep red hue, it’s ideal for those cozy summer picnics. Its intensely sweet taste is enough to make anyone fall in love with lychees!

In short, lychees may all share that signature sweetness, but their unique flavors and textures reflect the diverse regions they hail from. Have you tried any? Which is your favorite one?