Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus): Magenta-Fleshed Pitaya

Overview

Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is a vining, epiphytic cactus prized for its stunning fruit: bright pink skin with green scales and deep magenta-red flesh studded with tiny black seeds. The flavor is sweeter and more berry-like than white-fleshed types. Stems are three-ribbed, green, with short spines. Huge, fragrant, white nocturnal flowers bloom in summer. Vigorous climber needing strong support. Self-fertile but benefits from cross-pollination. A superfood rich in antioxidants. Tropical to subtropical.

Key Features

• Fruit: Pink skin, deep magenta-red flesh; sweet, berry-like.
• Stems: Three-ribbed, green, short spines; climbing.
• Flowers: Large, white, fragrant, nocturnal; summer.
• Nutrition: High antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber.

Care Guidelines

Light

Full sun to part shade.

Water

Regular in growth; keep moist but drained. Reduce in winter.

Soil

Rich, well-drained, organic. Epiphytic mix works.

Support

Sturdy trellis or post essential.

Taxonomy

Family:	Cactaceae
Genus:	Hylocereus (hy-loh-KER-ee-us)
Species:	polyrhizus (pol-ee-RY-zus)
Synonym:	Cereus polyrhizus