Herculandia is one of the rarest varieties of dragonfruit. And its rarity is not due to the complexity of its cultivation, but to the fact that its taste and yields are average. Given the dozens of alternatives that are much better in terms of commercial cultivation, there is little motivation to export it beyond the borders of the country where it was bred.
So the likelihood that you’ll find cuttings or ripe fruit on sale is extremely slim.
Description
Herculandia is a self fertile variety that does not need hand and cross pollination. Medium size fruit: 400gr. 11,0 Brix, Flavor: acid taste. Origin: City of Herculandia, Brazil.
| Genus: | Hylocereus |
| Foliage: | Evergreen |
| Indoor / outdoor: | Indoor & outdoor |
| Type: | Cacti |
| Plant characteristic: | Edible fruit |
| Growth habit: | Climbing |
| Soil pH: | Neutral (6.6-7.3pH) |
| Soil type: | Loam, peat, sand, volcanic with perfect drainage |
| Climate: | Dry, sub-tropical, temperate, tropical |
| Sunlight: | Partial shade, full sun, part sun (50-80%) |
| Time to fruit/flower/harvest: | 2-3 years |
| Fruiting / harvest months: | Between late June and mid-December |
| Outside color: | Pink |
| Pulp color: | White |
| Plants required to pollinate: | 1 (self-pollinating) |
| Watering: | Drought hardy (little watering) |
| USDA Hardiness Zone (°F): | 13 (> 60 °F) |
| Max height: | 2-5 m - when in the ground with good conditions |
| Flavor: | 4 out of 5 |
| Home planting: | 5 out of 5 |
| Commercial planting: | 3 out of 5 |
About dragon fruit plant
Pitaia/Pitaya is the name given to the fruit of several species of epiphytic cacti of the genera Hylocereus and Selenicereus, native to regions of Central America and Mexico, and widely cultivated in Brazil and China.
The term Pitaya means “scaly fruit”. It is also known as Dragon Fruit in some languages, such as English and in Asian languages.
Since the dragonfruit plant only blooms at night (large white flowers), its flowers are one of several plants known as “nightflowers”. The ideal temperature for growing Pythias is between 14 and 32°C. These plants enjoy humid climates, but also adapt well to drier climates.
Dragon fruit is very rich in vitamins, minerals and oligosaccharides, the pitaia helps excellently in maintaining good health. This fruit can lower cholesterol, delay cellular aging, and regulate blood sugar levels. Omega-3 is found in its formula, which is rich in magnesium and calcium, minerals that boost the body’s immunity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Herculandia is a variety for collectors or for growing at home. It is of commercial interest only to Brazilians.
