Dragonfruit, Dragon Fruit, Night-Blooming Cereus, Strawberry Pear, Pitahaya, Tuna, Nopal, Pitajaya, Belle of the Night, Conderella Plant, Honolulu Queen, Moonlight Cactus, Queen of the Night, Red Pitaya, White-fleshed Pitahaya, Selenicereus undatus
Selenicereus undatus (formerly Hylocereus undatus), also known as dragon fruit, pitahaya, or pitaya, is native to Central and South America. Dragon fruit has gained popularity worldwide for its unique appearance, refreshing taste, and potential health benefits.
Description: Dragon fruit plants are epiphytic or climbing cacti characterized by their long, segmented stems with aerial roots that cling to surfaces. The stems are usually green or reddish and can reach several meters in length.
Growth Habit and Size: Dragon fruit plants are fast-growing and can reach a height of 20 feet (6 meters) or more if given proper support. They are usually grown using trellises or other structures, as their stems are not self-supporting.
Fruits: The fruits are oval-shaped and range from 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in length. They have a leathery, slightly waxy skin that is either pink or yellow, depending on the variety, with distinctive overlapping scales. The fruit’s flesh is juicy and contains numerous small, edible black seeds. Depending on the variety, the flesh is either white or red and has a mildly sweet, refreshing taste.
Flowers: They are large, showy, and nocturnal, opening at night to be pollinated by bats, moths, or bees. The flowers can reach up to 14 inches (35 cm) in length, with numerous white or yellow petals and a sweet fragrance. When pollinated, they give way to edible, fleshy red fruits with prominent scales.
Blooming Season: In temperate climates, Dragon fruit plants usually bloom in late spring to early summer. In tropical climates, the plant can have up to 4-6 flowering/fruiting cycles per year.
Hardiness: Dragon fruit plants are typically hardy in USDA zones 10-11, requiring a frost-free environment and temperatures above 40°F (4°C) to thrive. This cactus thrives best in temperatures ranging from 65-80°F (18-27°C).
Uses: The main use of Selenicereus undatus is for its fruit, which has a sweet, mild flavor and a unique, attractive appearance. The fruit can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies or desserts, or used to make jams and other preserves. The plant is also grown for its ornamental value, with its unusual growth habit and striking flowers adding interest to gardens and indoor spaces.
Pollinators: The flowers are primarily pollinated by bats, moths, and bees, which are attracted to the flowers’ sweet fragrance.
Drought Tolerance: As a cactus, dragon fruit plants are relatively drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dryness. However, regular watering is necessary for optimal fruit production.
Growing dragon fruit can be a rewarding experience for several reasons, including:
Unique and attractive plant: Plants have an exotic and intriguing appearance, with sprawling, thick stems that climb and vine. The plant produces large, fragrant, and showy flowers that bloom at night, adding a unique charm to your garden or home.
Delicious and nutritious fruit: Dragon fruit has a mild, sweet taste and a refreshing texture, making it a delicious and healthy addition to your diet. It is packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber, which contribute to various health benefits.
Easy to grow and maintain: Plants are relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of growing conditions. They are drought-tolerant and can thrive in various soil types, making them suitable for novice and experienced growers alike.
High yield potential: A single plant can produce several fruits per season, offering a bountiful harvest for personal consumption or sale. As the plants mature, their yield potential increases, providing you with an abundant supply of fruit for years to come.
Ornamental value: The unique aesthetic of dragon fruit plants makes them an excellent choice for enhancing the visual appeal of your garden or home. They can be grown in containers, used as climbing plants on trellises or planted as a focal point in a landscape design.
By growing your own dragon fruit, you can enjoy the satisfaction of cultivating a unique, attractive plant while reaping the benefits of fresh, nutritious, and delicious fruit.
Dragon fruit is low in calories and rich in essential nutrients. A 100-gram serving of dragon fruit contains:
High in antioxidants: Dragon fruit contains powerful antioxidants such as betacyanins and betaxanthins, which help protect the body from free radicals that cause damage to cells and contribute to chronic diseases.
Boosts immune system: The vitamin C content in dragon fruit aids in strengthening the immune system and supports the absorption of iron.
Promotes gut health: Dragon fruit is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
Aids in weight management: The low-calorie content and high fiber content of dragon fruit make it a great option for those looking to manage their weight, as it promotes a feeling of fullness and aids digestion.
While dragon fruit is generally considered safe to eat and provides various health benefits, there are a few potential health risks to be aware of:
Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to dragon fruit, especially if they have allergies to other fruits. Symptoms can range from mild (itchy mouth, throat, or skin) to severe (swelling, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis). If you suspect an allergic reaction after consuming dragon fruit, seek medical attention immediately.
Gastrointestinal issues: Dragon fruit is high in fiber, which is beneficial for digestion. However, consuming large amounts of fiber in a short period can cause gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea, in some individuals. To avoid these problems, consume dragon fruit in moderation and increase your intake gradually.
Blood sugar levels: Dragon fruit has a relatively low glycemic index, meaning it should not cause significant spikes in blood sugar levels. However, people with diabetes or other blood sugar-related conditions should monitor their intake and consult with their healthcare provider to ensure it fits within their dietary guidelines.
Pesticide residue: Conventionally grown dragon fruit may be exposed to pesticides, which can pose health risks when consumed in large amounts. To minimize your exposure to pesticides, choose organic dragon fruit or grow your own using organic practices.
Drug interactions: While not common, it is possible that dragon fruit could interact with certain medications, such as those used to control blood sugar levels or blood pressure. If you are taking any medications, speak with your healthcare provider before adding dragon fruit to your diet.
In general, consuming dragon fruit in moderation as part of a balanced diet is safe for most people. If you have any concerns or pre-existing health conditions, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet.
Dragon fruit has a mild, subtly sweet taste that some people compare to a blend of kiwi, pear, and watermelon. The texture of the fruit is similar to kiwi, as it contains small, edible black seeds dispersed throughout the soft, juicy flesh.
There are different varieties of dragon fruit, and their tastes may vary slightly. The most common types are the red-skinned fruit with white flesh (Hylocereus undatus) and the red-skinned fruit with red or magenta flesh (Hylocereus costaricensis). The yellow-skinned fruit with white flesh (Selenicereus megalanthus) is less common and has a sweeter taste than the red-skinned varieties.
To cut a dragon fruit, follow these steps:
When selecting dragon fruit, look for firm, evenly colored skin without any blemishes or soft spots. The fruit can be stored at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Growing dragon fruit plants can be a rewarding experience.
Sunlight: Plants prefer full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, some partial shade during the hottest part of the day can be beneficial in very hot climates.
Soil: Dragon fruit plants, being a type of cactus, prefer well-draining soil that allows water to flow through easily and prevents root rot. The ideal soil is a mix of sand, loamy soil, and organic matter like compost.
Spacing: Dragon fruit cactus may become quite large and should be planted 15–25 feet (4-7 m) or more away from trees, structures, and electrical lines.
Dig a hole: Make a hole about twice the size of the plant’s root ball. Ensure the hole is deep enough to accommodate the entire root system without bending or breaking the roots.
Plant: Carefully remove the plant from its container, gently untangling any circling roots. Place the plant in the hole, positioning it next to the support structure. Ensure the base of the stem is slightly above the soil line to prevent rotting.
Fill in the hole: Backfill the hole with the amended soil mixture, gently firming it down to eliminate air pockets. Make sure the plant is upright and secure.
Watering: Water the plant thoroughly after planting, and then allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Dragon fruit plants are drought-tolerant but require consistent moisture during the active growing season. In the dormant season, reduce the frequency of watering.
Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer months to promote growth and fruit production. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced fruiting.
Support: Plants are climbers and need support to grow. Provide a strong trellis, stake, or another support structure for the plant to climb.
Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and size, improves air circulation, and encourages fruit production. Remove dead or damaged growth and thin out overcrowded branches. Prune the plant after fruiting or during the dormant season. Dragon Fruit plants are vigorous and may require pruning 1-3 times per year.
Pollination: Some varieties require cross-pollination to produce fruit. Hand-pollinate flowers at night using a small brush or cotton swab to transfer pollen from one flower to another.
Harvesting: Dragon fruit is ready to harvest when the skin color changes from bright green to red or yellow, depending on the variety. The fruit should be slightly soft when gently squeezed. Cut the fruit from the plant using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears.
Dragon Fruit is estimated to live about 20 years and may produce up to 220 lb (100 kg) of fruit per year 3-4 years after planting.
Propagating dragon fruit is relatively easy and can be done using seed (it may take up to 7 years from planting to fruit production) or stem cuttings. Follow these steps to propagate your plant by stem cuttings:
Choose a healthy stem: Select a healthy, mature stem from a well-established plant. The stem should be at least 6 months to 1 year old, firm, and free from diseases or pests.
Prepare the cutting: Using a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears, cut the stem at a 45-degree angle. The cutting should be at least 10-12 inches (25-30 cm) long. Make sure to handle the cutting carefully, as the spines can cause irritation.
Allow the cutting to dry: Place the cutting in a dry, shaded area for 3-7 days to allow the cut end to form a callus. This step is essential to prevent rotting when the cutting is planted.
Prepare the potting mix: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. You can create your own mix by combining equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand. Fill a pot (with drainage holes) with the prepared mix.
Plant the cutting: Once the cut end has callused, insert the callused end about 2 inches (5 cm) deep into the potting mix. Firmly press the soil around the cutting to provide support.
Water sparingly: Water the cutting sparingly at first to prevent rotting. Allow the soil’s top 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm) to dry out between waterings.
Provide appropriate conditions: Place the pot in a bright, indirect light location, with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F (21-29°C). Gradually expose the cutting to direct sunlight over several weeks.
Monitor for root development: The cutting should begin to develop roots within 3-4 weeks. Gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance, which indicates that roots have formed.
Transplant: Once the cutting has established a strong root system, you can transplant it into a larger pot or plant it directly in the ground, depending on your climate and growing conditions.
Care for the new plant: Continue to care for your new plant by providing it with appropriate sunlight, water, and fertilizer. The plant should start producing fruit in 2-3 years with proper care.
Dragon fruit plants can be affected by several pests and diseases. Here’s a brief overview of these issues:
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark, sunken lesions on the stems, leaves, and fruit. To prevent and control anthracnose, maintain good air circulation, prune infected plant parts, and apply fungicides if necessary.
Brown spots: These can be caused by fungal or bacterial infections or even environmental factors like sunburn or nutrient deficiencies. Identifying the exact cause can help determine the appropriate treatment, which may include adjusting watering practices, improving air circulation, or applying fungicides.
Stem and fruit rots: Caused by various fungi, these rots can lead to the decay of plant tissue, fruit drop, and reduced yield. To prevent and control stem and fruit rots, practice good sanitation by removing infected plant parts, maintaining proper air circulation, and avoiding overwatering.
Ants: Ants can harm dragon fruit plants indirectly by protecting and farming aphids or other sap-sucking insects for their honeydew. Controlling ants with baits or barriers can help reduce their impact on the plant.
Scales: These small, sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and may secrete honeydew, which attracts ants and leads to sooty mold growth. Control measures include manual removal, the use of horticultural oils, or the application of insecticides.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that can infest dragon fruit plants. They are typically white or gray in color and have a waxy, powdery appearance. These pests feed on plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and drop, and can also result in stunted growth and reduced fruit production. Prune infested plant parts, encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps
Birds: Birds may be attracted to ripe dragon fruit and can cause damage by pecking at the fruit. Using bird netting, reflective tape, or scare devices can help deter birds from damaging the fruit.
It is essential to monitor your dragon fruit plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases and take action to address issues as soon as they are detected. Maintaining a healthy environment for your plants, including proper watering, fertilization, and pruning practices, can help prevent many problems.
Can dogs eat dragon fruit?
Yes, dogs can eat dragon fruit in moderation. Dragon fruit is non-toxic to dogs and can be a healthy treat, providing them with nutrients and antioxidants. However, be sure to remove the skin and seeds before feeding them to your dog, as the seeds may cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities. As with any new food, introduce it slowly and watch for any adverse reactions.
Where does the dragon fruit come from?
Dragon fruit is native to Central and South America, particularly Mexico and Colombia. It is a tropical fruit that grows on a cactus species known as Hylocereus or Selenicereus. Due to its popularity and adaptability, dragon fruit is now cultivated in many parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, Israel, Australia, and the southern United States. Vietnam is one of the largest producers of dragon fruit worldwide.
| Hardiness |
10 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
10 - 12 |
| Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents, Fruits |
| Plant Family | Cactaceae |
| Common names | Dragon Fruit |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
| Maintenance | Average |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries, Fragrant |
| Hardiness |
10 - 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones |
10 - 12 |
| Plant Type | Cactus & Succulents, Fruits |
| Plant Family | Cactaceae |
| Common names | Dragon Fruit |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
| Maintenance | Average |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Soil Type | Chalk, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries, Fragrant |
How many Hylocereus undatus (Dragon Fruit) do I need for my garden?
| Plant | Quantity | |
|---|---|---|
| Hylocereus undatus (Dragon Fruit) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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