Brazilian Longan (Pometia pinnata)

FamilySapindaceae
Scientific namePometia pinnata
Common name (English)Brazilian Longan
Common name (Malay)Mata Kuching
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Pometia pinnata, commonly known as Brazilian longan or Fijian longan, is a tropical tree in the Sapindaceae family. Native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, it is cultivated for its sweet, edible fruits and durable timber. Traditionally, various parts of the tree—including fruits, seeds, leaves, and bark—have been used in folk medicine for their digestive, anti-inflammatory, and tonic properties. With its nutritional, medicinal, and ecological significance, Pometia pinnata remains an important species in tropical agroforestry, home gardens, and local food traditions.