Dragon Fruit Tree

Dragon fruits are among the most attractive and exotic fruits, which are produced by some species of cacti, especially those belonging to the genus Hylocereus. Dragon fruits, that are produced by cacti of this genus is often referred to as sweet pitayas. However, there are some other genus, like, Stenocereus (sour pitaya) and Cereeae that produce fruits, which are considered as dragon fruits only. The color of the skin and pulp may vary with species. There are three common varieties of sweet pitayas, red skin with purple pulp (Hylocereus costaricensis), red skin with white pulp (Hylocereus undatus) and yellow skin with white pulp (Hylocereus megalanthus). The creamy pulp with edible seeds has a very delicate aroma. While, some people relish this fruit, some others dislike the smell and flavor. However, dragon fruits are low in calories, instantly refreshing and nutritious.

Some Dragon Fruit Tree Facts

Though, natives to Mexico and parts of central America, dragon fruit trees are widely cultivated in Asian countries, like, Taiwan, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Malaysia. Locally, this fruit is known as 'pitaya', but, have many other names, like, dragon fruit, fire dragon fruit, dragon pearl fruit, strawberry pear and nanettika fruit. These trees that belong to the genus Hylocereus are the most common and popular varieties and most of these plants produce large white flowers. The special feature of these flowers is that they bloom at night and possess a very rich fragrance. So, these flowers are also called 'Moon flower' or 'queen of the night'.

Dragon fruit trees are vine-like cactus, that can attain a height of around twenty feet. Even though, these trees are found in tropical zones with high temperatures, they can be grown in containers too. They are propagated through seeds or cuttings. It has been observed that these trees can get adapted to many types of soil and can even tolerate light frost. In colder regions, they are found to be grown in greenhouses or in containers, which can be shifted indoors during frost.

How to Plant a Dragon Fruit Tree

If you are planning to plant this tree on ground, select a place with rich, well-drained soil, in partial shade. It is always better to support the plant with a stake, from the very beginning itself. Water the plant once a week, as over watering may cause rotting of the roots. As the plant grows, support must be provided in the form of trellis or metal frames and make sure to secure new growths to these frames with strong twines. It has been observed that the plants must have a minimum weight of around ten pounds, so as to bear fruits. In suitable growing conditions, it takes around two years for dragon fruit trees to produce fruits. It is also suggested that only one pseudo stem should be allowed to grow, during the initial stages and secondary ones can be pruned. Once the shoots grow well, allow three to five secondary pseudo stems to grow in a balanced and well spread manner. You may also help the flowers to get pollinated. This can be done by collecting the pollen (from anthers) in a soft brush and depositing it on the stigma (star-shaped), which protrudes out of the petals. You may use organic fertilizers twice a year for good yield.

This tree can also be planted in big containers or pots (preferably ten gallon). You have to ensure proper drainage by placing some rocks and gravel in the bottom of the container, which can be filled with potting soil. Make sure to keep a stake at a distance of around three to four inches from the plant. Place the pot in light shade and during frost, you have to keep the plant indoors. Dragon fruit tree care may vary with species and climatic conditions. So, it will be better to collect more information from the local nursery.