The Queen of the Night Dragon Fruit variety is an exotic fruit that has become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its striking appearance, unique taste, and numerous health benefits. In this article, we’ll explore the origin, cultivation, and benefits of this fascinating fruit, as well as provide tips on how to grow it at home and enjoy it in various recipes.
Description
The Queen of the Night’s fruit is small and unique, with a purple outside that turns red. The fruit is also covered with hair-like spines, which can be brushed off when the fruit is ready to be picked. The fruit’s white meat is hard and has small seeds that are crunchy. When picked early, the fruit has a nice taste with a tangy finish.
Like many Selenicereus species, this one blooms at night, which is where its popular name comes from. The first hairs on flower buds are white. Soon after that, thin flower tubes open up into flowers that are 8 to 10 inches across and smell like vanilla. When fully open, the flower has white and yellow front petals and bronze back petals. This plant has a lot of flowers when it’s full-grown.
| Plant type: | Fruiting cactus vine |
| Brix: | 13-14 |
| Soil & moisture: | Well-drained, loose sandy cactus mix |
| Light requirements: | Full Sun, part shade in warmer climates |
| Self-pollinating: | No |
| Outside color: | Pink or red |
| Pulp color: | White |
| Taste: | Sweet |
| Flavor: | 3 out of 5 |
| Appearance: | 5 out of 5 |
| Growing: | 4 out of 5 |
| Home planting: | 3 out of 5 |
| Commercial planting: | 3 out of 5 |
Commercial cultivation of this pitahaya sort is predominantly in Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. However, it’s also grown in parts of the United States, Mexico, and Israel. The fruit is typically harvested between June and September, depending on the region and climate.
Health Benefits
Queen of the Night Dragon Fruit is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to any diet. Some of its health benefits include:
- Rich in vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system;
- High in fiber, promoting good digestion and weight management;
- Contains antioxidants that protect against free radicals and reduce inflammation;
- Low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those watching their weight.
How to Grow at Home
If you’re interested in growing your own dragon fruit, follow these steps to ensure a successful harvest:
- Choosing the Right Plant. Purchase a healthy, established plant from a reputable nursery or online supplier. Look for a plant with a strong root system and no signs of pests or disease.
- Soil Requirements. Dragon fruit plants thrive in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A mix of equal parts potting soil, sand, and perlite or coconut coir is ideal.
- Light and Temperature. Queen of the Night dragonfruit requires full sun and consistently warm temperatures, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C). If you live in a cooler climate, consider growing the plant in a container so you can move it indoors during colder months.
- Watering and Fertilizing. Water your dragon fruit plant regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s essential to avoid soggy soil. Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every few months during the growing season, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
How to eat
There are countless ways to enjoy this versatile fruit, whether you prefer to eat it fresh or incorporate it into various dishes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Fresh Fruit. Simply cut the fruit in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. The skin is not edible, so be sure to discard it. You can also peel the skin and slice the fruit into bite-sized pieces for a refreshing snack.
- Smoothies and Juices. Blend the fruit with other tropical fruits, such as pineapple or mango, along with a splash of coconut water or almond milk for a refreshing, nutrient-packed smoothie. You can also juice the fruit and enjoy it on its own or mixed with other fruit juices.
- Desserts and Baking. Queen of the Night pitaya is a delicious addition to fruit salads, parfaits, and other desserts. Try incorporating the fruit into your favorite muffin or cake recipe for a unique twist on a classic treat.
Conclusion
The Queen of the Night Dragon Fruit is an exotic, nutritious, and versatile fruit that deserves a place in your kitchen. Whether you choose to grow it at home or purchase it from your local market, there are countless ways to enjoy its unique flavor and reap its numerous health benefits.
