In the world of tropical fruits, dragon fruit is a superstar. This exotic delicacy is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Among the diverse varieties of dragon fruit, the Malaysian Purple stands out with its unique characteristics.
Description
Native to Malaysia, the Malaysian Purple dragon fruit (also called Malay Purple) is a specific variety that is loved for its distinctive taste and aesthetic appeal. Unlike other typical dragon fruit varieties, this plant takes a slightly longer time to ripen. This extended ripening period allows the fruit to develop a more pronounced flavor and a rich, deep color.
| Family: | Cactus |
| Plant type: | Perennial vine fruit / vegetable |
| Size: | Medium |
| Flavor: | Sweet, with a hint of blueberry |
| USDa hardiness zones: | 9-11 |
| Size: | H: 6'-20' W: 6'-20' |
| Brix: | 16-18 |
| Tolerant: | Heat tolerant, humidity tolerant, verticillium wilt resistant |
| Weight: | ~ 350 grams |
| Water needs: | Even moisture - regular |
| Sun exposure: | Sun - mostly sun |
| Foliage season: | Evergreen |
| Fruit: | Purple/orange |
| Flower color: | White |
| Flower season: | Spring, summer, fall |
| Suitable for: | Indoor, outdoor |
| Date of harvest: | Mid-season |
| Uses: | Gardening, personal home use, agriculture use, home gardening, tree planting |
| Flavor: | 5 out of 5 |
| Production: | 4 out of 5 |
| Commercial planting: | 5 out of 5 |
What sets “Malaysian Purple” apart is its intriguing growth process. When the fruit is in the green stage, it has quite long bracts, which shorten during the ripening process as the fruit plumps up. This unique growth pattern further adds to the allure of this variety.
Growing conditions
This dragonfruit, like most of its kind, thrives in a tropical or subtropical climate. It is primarily grown from cutting, and in good conditions, it can reach a height of 2-5 m. This dragon fruit variety is self-pollinating, meaning it doesn’t require another plant for pollination. This characteristic makes it an ideal choice for home gardeners who wish to cultivate their own dragon fruit.
Despite its tropical origins, Malay pitahaya can handle a variety of climates. It prefers temperatures above freezing and can grow quite well in a range of soil types, making it a resilient choice for dragon fruit enthusiasts.
Nutritional value
This sort, identified as ‘DGF4’ in scientific terms, could be an excellent source of nutrients, on par with many common fruits such as apple, grape, kiwi fruit, papaya, and pepper. Its high nutritional value, coupled with its unique flavor and appearance, makes it a worthwhile addition to any diet.
Conclusion
“Malay Purple” pitaya is a captivating variety that offers a unique taste, aesthetic appeal, and a wealth of nutritional benefits. Its extended ripening period, self-pollinating nature, and resilience to various climates make it a top choice for both commercial growers and home gardeners. So, if you’re looking to add a touch of the exotic to your fruit bowl, consider the Malaysian Purple dragon fruit. You won’t be disappointed!
