Cactaceae
Dragon Fruit: Edible Plant
Selenicereus undatus
Requires full sun to produce fruit and a sturdy support for climbing. The soil must be well-drained and watering should be moderate.
Every 7 days
Bright indirect
15° - 35°C
40% - 80%
Categories
What is Dragon Fruit?
Dragon Fruit (Selenicereus undatus) is a medium-care plant from the Cactaceae family. Selenicereus undatus, popularly known as White Pitaya or Dragon Fruit, is a fast-growing epiphytic cactus native to Central and South America. It is characterized by its triangular, succulent stems that climb trees or supports. Its flowers are spectacular, large, and white, opening only at night, wh...
Dragon Fruit grows up to 6.0m, with spread of 300cm, watering every 7 days, 15°C â 35°C, 40â80% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many popular species, Dragon Fruit is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 14 days.
How to Care for Dragon Fruit?
TLDR: Dragon Fruit needs Bright indirect, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 15-35°C with 40-80% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Dragon Fruit?
Water deeply when the top 3 cm of soil is dry. During winter, drastically reduce the frequency of watering.
How Much Light Does Dragon Fruit Need?
For fruit production, the plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In extremely hot climates, light afternoon shade can prevent stem scorch.
What Is the Best Soil for Dragon Fruit?
Use a mix rich in organic matter but with excellent drainage, such as a combination of potting soil, coarse sand, and worm castings.
What Pot Should You Use for Dragon Fruit?
Large pots (minimum 40 liters) with plenty of drainage holes, preferably made of clay or cement for stability, accompanied by a trellis or wooden post.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Repot
Every 730 days
What Is Dragon Fruit and Where Does It Come From?
Selenicereus undatus, popularly known as White Pitaya or Dragon Fruit, is a fast-growing epiphytic cactus native to Central and South America. It is characterized by its triangular, succulent stems that climb trees or supports. Its flowers are spectacular, large, and white, opening only at night, which earns it the name 'Queen of the Night'. The fruit is oval, with vibrant pink skin and green scales, containing a sweet white pulp dotted with small edible black seeds.
How to Propagate Dragon Fruit?
Stem Cutting
- Avoid overwatering in the first few days to prevent the cutting from rotting.
- Use rooting hormone if you wish to speed up the process, although it is not strictly necessary.
- 1 Segment Cutting
Cut a healthy stem segment about 20 to 30 cm long, preferably at a joint.
- 2 Curing
Let the cut dry in a shaded area for 3 to 7 days until the base forms a callus.
- 3 Planting
Plant the cutting in sandy, well-drained soil, burying about 2 to 5 cm of the base.
- 4 Rooting
Keep the soil slightly moist and in a spot with indirect light until roots are established.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Dragon Fruit Grow?
TLDR: Dragon Fruit can reach up to 6.0m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
6.0m
Spread
3.0m
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal Uses
- Aids digestion due to high fiber content
- Source of antioxidants and vitamin C
Culinary Uses
- Fresh consumption of the pulp
- Juices and smoothies
- Jams and ice creams
- Fruit salads
- Cocktail garnish
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Dragon fruit symbolizes strength, prosperity, and good luck. In some cultures, it is believed that the plant brings protection to the home.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flamingo Flower | Medium | Partial shade | 5d | â ïļ |
| Prayer Plant | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | â |
| Thanksgiving Cactus | Easy | Partial shade | 3d | â |
| Mandevilla | Medium | Bright indirect | 7d | â ïļ |
