Frankie’s Red dragon fruit

Frankie’s Red dragon fruit is a hybrid variety that is the result of a cross between Selenicereus megalanthus and Hylocereus polyrhizus. The fruit is small with red/orange skin and red flesh, and it is similar in shape and size to Columbiana fruit. It is known to be self-fertile and has easy fruit set. This sort is often confused with another, the orange dwarf. They are indeed similar, but still not the same.

Description

The shape and size of the fruit are the same as a Yellow Dragon fruit. When the fruit appears, it starts out green, then turns yellow, and finally turns orange. Inside the thin skin is a big mass of sweet red pulp and many small black seeds. The fruit is also very sweet, with a Brix score of 21 on average. It has a sweet beet flavor and is excellent eaten fresh, in jams, as a garnish, or as juice in drinks. At the bottom of the fruit, thorns grow, but when the fruit is ready to be picked, they are easily brushed off.

The flower is about the size of a fist, with white petals on the inside and yellow and white petals on the outside. When the flower is fully open, it looks like a bell. The flower buds are different from those of other Selenicereus species, but they look like those of Hylocereus species. Flowers bloom just after sunset and close just before sunrise. Flowers can make their own babies, but to make sure fruit sets, we recommend pollinating them by hand.

Michael Gorelov

One unique characteristic of Frankie's Red is that it is a self-fertile variety. This means that it can use its own pollen to set fruit. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are looking to grow dragon fruit in their own backyard.

The plants of Frankies pitahaya are known to be slow-growing and small in size. They have narrow stems compared to other dragon fruit varieties, but the fruit itself is very similar in shape and size to Colombiana fruit. This variety of dragon fruit requires a tropical climate and will not grow in cold temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dragonfruit grows best in soils that drain well and in full sun to part shade. Don’t let the soil dry out between waterings, and don’t forget to water this cactus.

This variety is sensitive to both heat and cold, which makes it difficult to grow. Second, this variety tends to get rust when it rains too much. In our greenhouses, this kind of plant grew very slowly. Because of these reasons, this variety is not recommended for beginners.

 My Thorny Love Affair with the Dragon Fruit Superstar

Let me tell you, folks, growing dragon fruit is an adventure. It’s like wrangling a prehistoric cactus with a sweet tooth. But among the spiny contenders, Frankie’s Red holds a special place in my heart, or should I say, my calloused hands. This fiery little number isn’t your average dragon fruit. It’s a conversation starter, a burst of sunshine on the fruit stand, and most importantly, a flavor explosion that’ll have you questioning every bland berry you’ve ever popped in your mouth.

Now, Frankie’s Red isn’t for the faint of heart. Its thorny embrace is no joke. Picture a medieval torture device crossed with a particularly grumpy cactus, and you’ve got the gist. But fear not, intrepid fruit explorer! With a good pair of gloves and a healthy dose of respect, these thorns become a badge of honor, a testament to the delicious battle you’ve waged.

The real magic unfolds when Frankie ripens. The green skin, once a camouflage amongst the foliage, starts to blush a vibrant orange. It’s like watching a sunrise unfold on the vine, a slow and mesmerizing transformation. Unlike its red-skinned cousins, Frankie doesn’t shy away from showing its true colors. This orange hue is a promise – a promise of hidden depths, of a flavor that goes beyond the expected.

Anna Gorelova

And oh boy, does it deliver! Cracking open a Frankie's Red is like splitting open a geode. The vibrant red flesh, flecked with tiny black seeds, is a feast for the eyes. But the true treasure lies in the taste. Imagine the sweetness of a perfectly ripe watermelon, the tang of a raspberry, and a hint of floral perfume, all woven together into a symphony on your tongue. It's a flavor that's both familiar and exotic, a delightful surprise with every bite.

But Frankie’s Red isn’t just a pretty (and tasty) face. This variety is a dream for any home grower. Unlike some finicky dragon fruit varieties, Frankie’s a self-pollinator. No need for a matchmaking service here! Just plant it, give it some TLC (think warm temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and well-draining soil), and watch it thrive. It’s not the fastest grower, mind you. It takes its sweet time, like a true diva preparing for its grand entrance. But the wait is more than worth it, trust me.

Now, what to do with this little jewel of a fruit? The possibilities are endless! Slice it up for a refreshing summer salad, add it to your smoothie for a tropical kick, or even try grilling it for a smoky, caramelized twist. Frankie’s Red holds its own beautifully, its vibrant color a showstopper in any dish.

So, if you’re looking for a dragon fruit that’s more than just a spiky red orb, give Frankie’s Red a try. It’s a conversation starter, a taste bud tantalizer, and a testament to the beauty and wonder of the plant world. Just remember your gloves, a little patience, and get ready to fall in love with this fiery, flavorful dragon fruit superstar.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Frankie pitaya is a unique and flavorful hybrid fruit. Its small size and slow growth make it an excellent choice for backyard gardeners in tropical climates. With its sweet taste and high brix score, it is a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of culinary applications.

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