This variety Dragon Fruit has an impressive appearance both inside and out. It also has the (sweet grape like) flavour to back up its good looks. The fruit size ranges from 400g to 600g, and occurs without cross or hand pollination. Stems of the plant are three sided with small spines. They have a heart-shaped rib that is very typical of Guatemalan varieties.
The dragon fruit / pitaya plant is a climbing cactus vine that grows well in dry areas. Because of its epiphytic nature, it grows best in soil with a high level of organic materials. The flowers are white and large sometimes measuring 30cm and larger. They are ornate and produce a sweet fragrance when in bloom. The flowers bloom for one night only. Dragon fruits are also called cactus fruits. They are closely related to the orchid cacti or epiphyllum. Epiphyllums are known for their large and impressive flowers. The fruit is popularly eaten raw and tastes better chilled. It is also served as a juice. The flesh is sweet and sometimes served with mango in a tropical sorbet. Dragon fruits reputedly improve eyesight and prevent hypertension. The seeds of the fruit supposed help in controlling blood glucose levels in people with non-insulin-dependent hyperglycaemic conditions (a kind of diabetes). It is also used to treat stomach and endocrine problems.
