Have you ever come across a fruit that looks like it belongs in a fantasy world? Meet the Jade Red Dragon Fruit, a tropical treat that’s not only visually stunning but also packed with health benefits. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this exotic fruit, from its origins and varieties to its nutritional profile, health benefits, and culinary uses. Let’s dive in!
Description
This type of dragon fruit is fairly new. It was bred in Australia. It’s a cross between the red-fleshed Hylocereus polyrhizus and an unknown epiphyllum. The skin is red, and the fins are green. Purple flesh tastes sweet like berries.
This type grows quickly, but its roots are not very thick. It seems to be able to handle the heat and cold pretty well. If you can get this kind, don’t hesitate to do so.
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%) |
Brix: | 18-21 |
Weight: | ~400-600 grams |
Outside color: | Red |
Pulp color: | Purple |
Flower color: | Pink / Crimson |
Watering: | Little watering |
USDA Hardiness Zone (°F): | 13 (> 60 °F) |
Max height: | 2-5 m - when in the ground with good conditions |
Flavor: | 5 out of 5 |
Home planting: | 4 out of 5 |
Commercial planting: | 4 out of 5 |
Buds
The first buds on Jade Red showed up before the plant was 13 months old, which was 13 months from the day the cutting was planted. Compared to other types, which can take years before they start to bear fruit, this is a very quick process.
Firstly, the buds are similar to those of Common Red, except that the tips are purple instead of red. But the later steps of bud growth make it very different. Slowly, the purple petals start to show up, popping out of the top of the bud, until the flower finally bursts open.
Flowers
Even if you don’t get any fruit from your Jade Red plant, the beautiful purple flower is worth your time. Some sources say that the flower can pollinate itself, but the small amount of pollen it makes and the fact that it is a hybrid make it much safer to cross pollinate. I think that if people don’t do anything, very few flowers will turn into fruit, and the fruit will be of low quality.
Another interesting thing about the flower is that it opens around 5 p.m., which is early for a dragon fruit. This may be because of the epiphyllum part. By 7 a.m., the flower was almost completely closed.
Nutritional Profile
This dragonfruit is not only pleasing to the eye, but also packed with essential nutrients. It is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A 100-gram serving contains:
Calories: 60
Fiber: 3 grams
Protein: 1.2 grams
Vitamin C: 34% of the daily value (DV)
Vitamin E: 4% of the DV
Iron: 4% of the DV
Magnesium: 10% of the DV
Health Benefits
- Antioxidants. One of the key benefits of this sort is its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, which can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
- Digestion and Gut Health. The high fiber content in pitahaya helps support a healthy digestive system. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, which can prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Moreover, it feeds the good bacteria in your gut, supporting a balanced gut microbiome.
- Boosting the Immune System. Rich in vitamin C, “Jade Red” helps strengthen the immune system, protecting you from infections and illnesses. Vitamin C also plays a vital role in collagen production, which promotes healthy skin, bones, and connective tissues.
- Anti-Aging Properties. The combination of antioxidants and vitamin E makes it a potent anti-aging food. Antioxidants help reduce the visible signs of aging, while vitamin E supports skin elasticity and hydration.
Culinary Uses
- Smoothies and Juices. It can be easily incorporated into your diet by adding it to smoothies and juices. Simply blend the fruit with your favorite ingredients, such as other fruits, yogurt, or almond milk, for a refreshing and healthy drink.
- Salads. For a colorful and nutritious addition to your salad, try adding diced Jade Red Dragon Fruit. Its mildly sweet flavor pairs well with a variety of greens and other fruits, such as avocado, mango, and pineapple.
- Desserts. With its vibrant color and unique texture, pitaya is a fantastic ingredient for desserts. Create eye-catching parfaits, fruit tarts, or sorbets using the fruit as a star ingredient.
Growing
- Planting. If you’re interested in growing your own Jade Red Dragon Fruit, you’ll need a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil. The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings and requires a trellis or support structure as it matures.
- Caring for the Plant. Plants require minimal care once established. Water them moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The plants also benefit from occasional fertilizing with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Harvesting. This variety is typically ready to harvest when its skin turns from green to red or pink, and the fruit is slightly soft to the touch. Use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the plant. Ripens in late summer.
Storing and Preserving
To store, simply place it in a cool, dry place or refrigerate it for up to two weeks. For longer storage, the fruit can be frozen or made into preserves, jams, or fruit leathers.
Conclusion
Jade Red Dragon Fruit is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile tropical treat that offers an array of health benefits. Whether you’re adding it to your smoothies, salads, or deserts, or even growing it in your garden, this exotic fruit is sure to become a favorite addition to your healthy lifestyle.