The Dragon Fruit or Pitaya may look otherworldly, but we promise it grows right here on Earth. With vibrant colors and a unique shape, this exotic delight is a perfect summer treat and makes for a great photo session. Curious about this bold fruit? Keep reading!
- The sweetness of this tropical fruit depends on the color of its flesh. White Dragon Fruits have a mild flavor profile compared to the dark-colored fruits.
- Dragon fruit is also known as “pitaya” or “strawberry pear”.
- Dragon fruit grows on a climbing cactus plant that can grow from 15-20 feet high and can live for as long as two decades.
- The flower buds of the fruit are edible when cooked.
- Dragon Fruits are native to Southern Mexico and across Central and South America. The fruit is also cultivated throughout Asia, with Vietnam being its top producer.
- The natural pigments of Dragon Fruit flesh can be used as dye or as ingredients in cosmetics.
- The night-blooming fruit is in season throughout the summer, with August and September being their peak months.
- Dragon Fruit seeds are edible and resemble Kiwi seeds.
- Asia is the largest market for dragon fruit worldwide.
- There are four different variations of dragon fruit on the market: red skin with white flesh, red skin with red flesh, red skin with purple flesh, and yellow skin with white flesh.
- Although most dragon fruit is grown outside of the US, farms in Florida, California, and Hawaii have begun cultivating the fruit to keep up with increasing demand.
- Don’t let the appearance of the fruit fool you, Dragon fruit is said to taste like a mix between a kiwi and a pear.
- Dragon fruit is rich in protein, fiber, iron, and antioxidants.
- Some plants are self-pollinating, but some require cross-pollination to produce the fruit.
- The plant is adaptable and is known to be drought resistant.
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Sources:
Organically Blissful
Blue Book Services
AgMRC
Song Nam ITD
Garden.eco