Hylocereus undatus, also known as Dragon Fruit, pitahaya, or pitaya, is a type of large cactus native to Central and South America. The plant is known for its exotic fruit, with a delicate taste and unique appearance.
The Hylocereus undatus plant grows in the form of a long, curly tulip, with branches and aerial roots that help to fix it on a support, when it exists. The stems are usually green, with three lobes and slightly wavy edges. On the edge of the stems there are areoles from which small thorns grow.
The flowers of Hylocereus undatus are particularly large and impressive, reaching 25-30 cm in diameter when fully open. They are white, with petals and sepals that form an impressive appearance. They only open at night, emit a strong scent and are generally pollinated by nocturnal insects or bats. In the absence of pollinators or in the case of growing indoors, pollination can be done manually.
These flowers turn into fruits after pollination. The Dragon fruit is oval or spherical, with a thick skin of pink, red or yellow color, covered with prominent scales. The flesh of the fruit can be white or red, with many small, edible seeds scattered evenly inside.
Dragon Fruit is known for its nutritional properties, having a rich content of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The fruit can be eaten raw, used in smoothies, fruit salads or as an ingredient in desserts. Also, the Hylocereus undatus plant is widely cultivated in regions such as Southeast Asia, Mexico, Israel and the United States.
Minimum temperature: 10 °C
Height with pots included: 15 cm