About Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit grows on the Hylocereus cactus, also known as the Queen of Honolulu, whose flowers only open at night.
The plant is from South Mexico and Central America.
It goes by many names, including pitaya, pitahaya, and strawberry pear. The two most common species have red and green skin that resembles a dragon
The most common type has white pulp with black seeds, although there are also rare types with red pulp and black seeds. Another variety – called yellow dragon fruit – has yellow skin and white pulp with black seeds.
Dragon fruit may look strange, but its taste is similar to other fruits. Its taste has been described as a slightly sweet cross between a kiwi and a pear.
Dragon fruit care
To grow your dragon fruit well, you need to live in a warm, sunny area and have enough space in your garden. It is a heavy cactus with a spreading habit and long stems. Make sure it is away from your home, power lines, and any dangerous objects it may interact with. It will also need to be supported by a strong trellis.
Light
Although the dragon fruit tree is warm and usually grown in full sun, too much sun in dry or particularly hot areas can damage the stems. If the temperature in your area is often close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it is best to plant your cactus in a shaded area. In the same way, it is important to know that too much shade can cause the seeds to fail to produce fruit and the quality of your harvest may not be as good.
Land
Dragon fruit cacti are not picky about their soil type or pH level. The main thing is that their soil is watered, full of organic matter, and healthy. Cactus experts also recommend mulching around the base of the plant, especially in dry areas, to help the soil retain moisture.
Water
Don’t make the mistake of thinking that because this plant is a cactus, you can survive in the water. Although dragon fruit cacti have some death tolerance, in order to produce a good harvest of fruit, it is best to water them regularly from the time they start to produce their flowers until you -harvest. However, excessive drinking can also lead to root rot and various types of fungal diseases. During the winter and early spring, give the plant the necessary dry time to make beautiful flowers
Health benefits of dragon fruit
Dragon fruit pulp is low in calories and fat-free. The benefits of dragon fruit also include the following:
It is a good source of fiber
Dragon fruit is a great source of fiber, Prescott said. The daily recommendation for fiber for adults is at least 25 grams – and dragon fruit has 5.6 grams in a one-cup serving.
“Fiber can be good for gut and heart health,” he added. “Fiber is also filling, which is helpful if you’re trying to lose weight. People who eat a diet rich in fiber can maintain good health.
It can improve your gut health
The good bacteria in your gut can help with digestion and even reduce the risk of colon cancer. Dragon fruit is a prebiotic that stimulates the growth of probiotic lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.
“Some studies seem to show that dragon fruit promotes the growth of good bacteria,” Prescott says. “It can have a positive effect on the gut microbiome, the good bacteria in our gut.”
It is rich in antioxidants
Dragon fruit contains a variety of antioxidants, which work to eliminate free radicals. These free radicals can damage cells and cause inflammation, which can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. Vitamin C, an antioxidant, helps your body absorb iron and supports a healthy immune system. Carotenoids can reduce the risk of cancer. And lycopene, a type of carotenoid, can improve heart health and reduce cancer risk.
