Hylocereus polyrhizus (also called Selenicereus / Hylocereus monacanthus, Cereus monacanthus, Hylocereus peruvianus, Hylocereus polyrhizes, Cereus venezuelensis, Hylocereus lamairei / lemairei, Hylocereus estebanensis, Hylocereus scandens, Hylocereus venezuelensis, Hylocereus trinitatensis) is a succulent plant that grows in warm climates. It is a slow-growing cactus that can reach up to 12 feet tall, with spines on the stem and leaves. The flesh of the plant is edible and has a sweet taste.
The fruit has a sweet and sour flavor and can be eaten fresh or used in smoothies, juices, or salads. To eat the dragon fruit, cut it in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Alternatively, you can cut off the top of the fruit and then use a fork to pull out the flesh.
About this dragon fruit cactus
Dragon fruit, also called red pitaya (species Hylocereus polyrhizus), is originally from Mexico, but it is now grown all over the world, including in Vietnam, Taiwan, Southern China, Israel, and, more recently, Thailand, Australia, the United States, and Malaysia. The bright purple-red color and high antioxidant content of dragon fruit have brought it attention all over the world.
| Outdoor | Patio | Sun, % | Soil |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 10-11 | Zone 4a-11 | 80-100% | Rich moist |
The red-fleshed Hylocereus monacanthus Dragon Fruit is the most common type. It is known as a “super fruit” because its dark red flesh (purple or pink) has a lot of antioxidants. The plant’s branches are strong, and it can handle heat well. The stems are about 19 to 16 inches across and have many aerial roots that hold them to the tree trunks. When stems first come out of the ground, they are often reddish. They then become waxy, blue-white, and finally green. Also, the ribs of the stem are deeper at first, but they get thicker as the stems get older. When the plants get big enough, they make 15-inch-long flowers with white inner petals and red and yellow outer petals. From bud to flower is 30 days, and from flower to fruit is another 30 days.
The benefits
The benefits of this type of pitahaya are vast, and range from improved mental health to better physical health. This cactus is known for its ability to improve moods, provide energy, and reduce stress levels. Additionally, it can help to improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and promote weight loss.
The dragon fruit has many benefits, including being high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in calories and carbs, making it a healthy choice for those looking to lose weight or improve their health. Additionally, the dragon fruit has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
The potential dangers of eating
The fruit is becoming more and more popular in the United States, but there are potential dangers associated with eating it. Red-fleshed pitaya contains oxalates, which can cause health problems for some people. Symptoms of oxalate poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Oxalates are found in many plants and foods, but the amount varies from food to food.
It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of illnesses. However, there is very little scientific evidence to support the use of this cactus for medicinal purposes. Hylocereus polyrhizus can cause a number of side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. It can also cause skin rash and allergic reactions.
How to grow
The Hylocereus polyrhizus cactus is a beautiful, unique plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. This cactus is known for its bright red flowers and long, green leaves. In order to grow a Hylocereus lamairei cactus, you will need a pot or container, soil, water, and a place to put your cactus in direct sunlight.
How to grow?
If you want to grow this red-fleshed pitahaya, you will need to provide it with a warm and humid environment. The cactus requires rich, well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. During the summer months, make sure to water the cactus regularly and fertilize it every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month and do not fertilize at all.
How to care
While the dragon fruit is relatively easy to care for, there are a few things you should know in order to ensure its long-term health. And we will tell you about the most important points in the care of the plant.
How to water pitaya
This cactus does not need a lot of water to thrive and can be watered every 10-14 days. When watering, give the cactus a good soaking until water starts running out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Then wait until the top half of the soil feels dry before watering again.
How to fertilize
This cactus grows best in tropical and subtropical climates and requires rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Fertilizing your dragon fruit can help it to grow big and healthy!
Dragon fruit can be fertilized with a combination of: * A complete fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 * A high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as 20-20-20 * A low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 * Watering the cactus once
Fertilizing your dragon fruit can help it to grow big and healthy!
How to propagate
Hylocereus polyrhizus is a fast growing, epiphytic cactus that can be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is when the plant is actively growing in the late spring or early summer. Cut a 3-6 inch long stem from the parent plant and remove the leaves from the lower 2/3 of the stem. Insert the stem into a moist potting soil and keep in a warm, humid environment until it roots.
How to pests and diseases
The dragon fruit is a popular fruit for its sweet taste and nutritional value. However, the dragon fruit is also susceptible to pests and diseases.
The list of pests and diseases that can infest Hylocereus polyrhizus includes the mealybug, ants, the whitefly, the aphid, and the scale insect. These pests feed on the sap of the cactus, causing it to wilt and die.
When to repot
Dragon fruit of the Hylocereus polyrhizus variety is a popular houseplant. It requires a lot of space, so it is not suitable for small homes or apartments. The plant should be repotted every two to three years, using a pot that is one size larger than the current pot. A good soil mix for pitaya plant includes potting soil, perlite, and vermiculite. This cactus is easy to grow and care for, but it should be kept out of direct sunlight and away from heat.
How to repot: the dragonfruit can be repotted every 2-3 years. Repot the cactus into a pot larger than the original, then give it a good soaking before watering again. Water the cactus sufficiently, but not too frequently.
How to care for indoors
Hylocereus estebanensis, also known as the dragon fruit with red flesh, is a succulent fruit that can be grown indoors in a pot with a drainage holes. They are easy to care for and can be kept in a pot or container on a sunny windowsill.
This plant is usually found growing in the wild near trees or on rocks. The dragonfruit plant has a green stem that can grow up to 3 feet long. The leaves of this plant are green and spiny. This plant blooms with large, white flowers that can be up to 8 inches wide.
When growing indoors, it is important to provide the plant with plenty of sunlight. The plant should also be given plenty of water, but make sure the soil is dry before watering again. The red pitahaya plant is easy to grow and is a hardy plant. However, this plant can be sensitive to low temperatures, so it should not be kept indoors during cold months.
How to care outdoors
If you’re the lucky dragon fruit plant owner, caring for it outdoors can be easy and rewarding. In order to provide your plant with the best possible growing conditions, follow these simple tips:
- Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
- Amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.
- Water regularly, making sure to avoid getting the leaves and fruit wet.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10.
- Protect from frost in cold climates; cover with a tarp or mulch if necessary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hylocereus polyrhizus is a great plant to have in your garden. It is easy to care for and has beautiful flowers that will brighten up any space. Be sure to give it plenty of water and sun, and it will thrive. It is a versatile and easy-to-grow cactus that can be used in a variety of ways. It is a great addition to any garden or landscape, and can also be used as a houseplant. Thanks for reading!
