Dragon fruit is a tropical fruit that has gained widespread popularity due to its unique appearance and health benefits. One of the most popular varieties of dragon fruit is the Rixford dragon fruit. It is a type of Dragonfruit that is a cross between the Hylocereus genus and the guatemalensis species.
Description
This variety is named after the renowned horticulturist, Paul Rixford, who is known for his contributions to the development of dragon fruit cultivation in the United States. This sort has a distinctive appearance, with a bright red skin and purple flesh that is speckled with tiny black seeds. The flesh of the fruit is sweet and juicy, with a mild flavor that is similar to that of kiwi fruit. The seeds are edible and add a slight crunch to the fruit’s texture.
The white and yellow flowers and flower buds look a lot like those of other H. guatemalensis types. They are usually 14 inches across. From flower open to fruit takes 30 days. Flowers can’t make fruit on their own, so they need to be pollinated by something else.
| Type: | Succulent epiphytic vining, terrestrial cactus |
| Foliage season: | Evergreen |
| USDA hardiness zone (°F): | 8 (10 to 20 °F), 9 (20 to 30 °F), 10 (30 to 40 °F) |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun |
| Flower color: | White |
| Water needs: | Medium, even moisture - regular |
| Soil type: | Peat, sand |
| Soil pH: | Neutral |
| Size: | Height: 6'-20', width: 6'-20' |
| Flavor: | 5 out of 5 |
| Fruit production: | 3 out of 5 |
| Appearance: | 5 out of 5 |
| Home planting: | 4 out of 5 |
| Commercial planting: | 3 out of 5 |
The fruit of this variety is round and about the size of a golf ball. It has purple flesh. Fruit usually weighs about a pound, but sometimes it can be bigger. The fruit is tasty and sweet, with a Brix score of 18 on average.
Cultivating Rixford pitahaya requires a warm and humid climate, as the plant is sensitive to cold temperatures. The plant is a type of cactus and grows best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings, and it typically takes about 2-3 years for the plant to produce fruit. The fruit is harvested when it is fully ripe, which is indicated by the bright red color of the skin.
This sort is a cross between Niezel and was used to make Cosmic Charlie (2-S), Dark Star (9-S), Physical Graffiti (1-S), Purple Haze (5-S), and Delight (3-S). More research also shows that Voodoo Child and Sugar Dragon were made by crossing Rixford with a strain called Houghton.
Rixford dragon fruit is packed with nutritional benefits. The fruit is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an excellent choice for those who are trying to maintain a healthy weight. The fruit is also rich in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, the fruit is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune system function and skin health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this pitaya sort is a unique and delicious fruit that offers a range of health benefits. Its distinctive appearance and mild flavor make it a popular choice among fruit lovers, and its nutritional benefits make it an excellent choice for those who are looking to improve their health.
With the right growing conditions, Rixford dragon fruit can be easily cultivated and enjoyed by anyone who appreciates the taste and benefits of this tropical fruit.
