learn about the weird and unusal Dragon Fruit
Description of a Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit is an exotic tropical treat. Dragon fruit cultivation comes from cactus plants grown in humid and tropical conditions such as Vietnam where they are called "Thanh long-Green dragon". This makes dragon fruit easier to find and very popular in Asian food markets. There are some varieties of dragon fruit available; red dragon fruit are the most common, but pink and yellow dragon fruits are known for an extra sweet and unique flavor. With the color of flesh there are two varieties of white and red. With bright pink on the outside and "scales" covering it, the dragon fruit really does resembles a dragon. It has a pale interior studded with tiny, edible seeds and a sweet-tart flavor
Qualities of a Dragon Fruit
The mild taste of pitaya flesh is often remarked upon, as it stands in stark contrast to the vibrant exterior. The taste has been described as being "very bland... like a melon or kiwi," with a "mild sweetness."
The fatty acid compositions of two pitaya seed oils were determined as follows
After thorough cleaning of the seeds from the pulp of the fruit, the seeds may be stored when dried. Ideally, the fruit must be unblemished and overripe. Seeds grow well in a compost or potting soil mix - even as a potted indoor plant. Pitaya cacti usually germinate between 11 and 14 days after shallow planting. As they are cacti, overwatering is a concern for home growers. As their growth continues, these climbing plants will find something to climb on, which can involve putting aerial roots down from the branches in addition to the basal roots. Once the plant reaches a mature 10 pounds in weight, the plant may flower.
Pests and diseases
Overwatering or excessive rainfall can cause the flowers to drop and fruit to rot. Also, extended over-watering can cause maturing fruit to split on the branch. Birds can be a nuisance. The bacterium Xanthomonas campestris causes the stems to rot. Dothiorella fungi can cause brown spots on the fruit, but this is not common.
Pitaya blanca or White-fleshed Pitaya
It red-skinned fruit with white flesh. This is the most commonly seen "dragon fruit
Pitaya amarilla or Yellow Pitaya
It has yellow-skinned fruit with white flesh.
Pitaya roja or Red-fleshed Pitaya
It has red-skinned fruit with red flesh