Meet Michelle, the dragon fruit with a unique story. This exotic and vibrant fruit has traveled across oceans to reach the United States, and is quickly becoming one of America’s favorite snacks.
With its sweet flavor, beautiful color, and crunchy texture, this fruit is an easy addition to any diet. It’s said that one bite of dragon fruit can transport you to distant lands due to its mysterious origins and flavors.
Description
Michelle’s type of Dragon Fruit comes from the genus Hylocereus and a species that isn’t known. This variety makes fruit that looks like a costaricensis species in that it is round. The fruit of this variety weighs from three-quarters of a pound to a pound, which is less than that of the other costaricensis species.
| Scientific name: | Hylocereus guatemalensis |
| Other names: | Pitahaya, Pitaya, dragon fruit |
| Plant type: | Cacti and houseplants |
| Foliage: | Evergreen |
| Growth stage: | Vegetative |
| Pollination: | Self-Sterile |
| Growing zone: | 9B, 10A, 10B, 11A, 11B |
| Skin color: | Red |
| Flesh color: | Dark red |
| Height / length: | Mature Height 5-10 FT (2-3 m) |
| Mature width: | 9-11 FT |
| Spacing: | 8-10 FT |
| Bloom season: | Fall, Summer |
| Sun requirement / light: | Full to partial sun, exposure to the south, east, or west |
| Color of flower: | White |
| Water: | Little water needed once established |
| Fertilization: | Fertilize in spring with a well-balanced fertilizer |
| Pruning: | Prune as needed to control growth and spread |
| Cold hardy: | 20-25° |
| Soil type: | Well drained |
| Drought tolerance: | Good |
| Growth rate: | Fast |
| Season of interest: | Autumn, Spring, Summer |
| Weather tolerance: | 4 out of 5 |
| Fruit production: | 4 out of 5 |
The fruit is red on the outside with green tips on the fins. The dark red flesh inside has a firm texture with a sweet-tart flavor and is filled with small edible seeds. The brix score averaged 17-18. The taste is sweet, with a sourness.
Michelle’s flowers smell great and look like other red Dragon Fruit species. This variety also grows quickly and has large, olive-green stems with three sides.
One of the most notable features of the Michelle dragon fruit variety is its sweet, tangy flavor. The fruit has a delicate taste that is a perfect balance between sweet and sour, and is often described as a cross between a kiwi and a pear. The flesh of the fruit is also quite juicy, making it a refreshing and hydrating snack.
In addition to its delicious taste, the Michelle pitaya variety is also known for its impressive nutritional profile. The fruit is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and calcium. It is also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help to promote healthy digestion.
The Michelle dragon fruit variety is relatively easy to grow, as it requires very little maintenance and can thrive in a range of soil types. The plant prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil, and requires regular watering during the growing season. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance crop for farmers and home gardeners alike.
Conclusion
Overall, the Michelle pitahaya variety is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-grow fruit that is well worth trying. Whether you enjoy it as a refreshing snack or use it in recipes such as smoothies, salads, or desserts, this unique fruit is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
