Overview & Taxonomy
The Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus undatus), categorized under Fruits, belongs to the Cactaceae family (Hylocereus undatus).
- Etymology: Greek 'hyle' (woody) + Latin 'cereus' (wax candle)
- Distribution & Habitat: Native to Central America, it thrives in Tropical dry forests.
Botanical Features & Phenology
Climbing epiphytic cactus with large fragrant nocturnal blooms.
- Phenology: Blooms at night during warm summer months.
- Tolerances: Heat tolerant, light frost sensitivity.
- Pests & Diseases: Mealybugs, soft rot.
Uses & Conservation
- Primary Uses: Edible magenta/white pitaya fruit, ornamental.
- Cultivars: Alice, Guyute
- Safety: Safe and edible.
- Conservation Status: Not Evaluated
- Historical Context: Introduced to Vietnam by French colonists in the 1800s.
References: Tropical Fruit Society