What Are the Different Types of Dragon Fruit Plant

Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a tropical fruit that has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique appearance and potential health benefits. The plant is native to Central and South America but can now be found in many parts of the world, including Asia and Australia. While there are several varieties of dragon fruit, they can be broadly classified into three main types: red-skinned, white-skinned, and yellow-skinned.

Red-Skinned Dragon Fruit

The red-skinned dragon fruit is the most commonly available variety and is usually found in supermarkets and grocery stores. This type of dragon fruit has a bright red or pink outer skin with green scales that resemble a dragon’s skin. The flesh inside is white with small black seeds and has a mild, sweet taste.

Some popular cultivars of red-skinned dragon fruit include:

• Hylocereus undatus: This is the most common variety of red-skinned dragon fruit and is also known as the white-fleshed pitahaya. It has a sweet taste and a slightly crunchy texture.
• Hylocereus polyrhizus: This variety has a deeper red color than the Hylocereus undatus and has a sweeter taste.
• Hylocereus costaricensis: This variety has a reddish-pink skin with green tips and has a sweet taste with a slight tartness.

White-Skinned Dragon Fruit

The white-skinned dragon fruit, also known as the yellow dragon fruit or pitaya blanca, has a yellow or white outer skin with green scales. The flesh inside is white with small black seeds and has a sweeter taste than the red-skinned variety.

Some popular cultivars of white-skinned dragon fruit include:

• Selenicereus megalanthus: This variety is native to South America and has a yellow outer skin with green scales. The flesh inside is white with small black seeds and has a sweet taste with a slight tartness.
• Hylocereus undatus: This variety is also known as the yellow-fleshed pitahaya and has a white outer skin with green scales. The flesh inside is white with small black seeds and has a mild, sweet taste.

Yellow-Skinned Dragon Fruit

The yellow-skinned dragon fruit, also known as the golden dragon fruit or pitaya amarilla, has a bright yellow outer skin with green scales. The flesh inside is white with small black seeds and has a sweet taste with a slight tartness.

Some popular cultivars of yellow-skinned dragon fruit include:

• Selenicereus megalanthus: This variety is also known as the yellow dragon fruit and has a sweet taste with a slight tartness.
• Hylocereus megalanthus: This variety is native to Colombia and has a yellow outer skin with green scales. The flesh inside is white with small black seeds and has a sweet taste.

How to Choose the Best Dragon Fruit?

When choosing dragon fruit, make sure to look for fruits that are firm to the touch but not too hard or too soft. The scales on the outside should be bright and evenly colored, without any blemishes or bruises. It’s also important to check for any signs of mold or decay.

How to Eat Dragon Fruit?

Dragon fruit can be eaten raw or used in smoothies, salads, or desserts. To eat raw dragon fruit, cut off the top and bottom of the fruit and slice it in half lengthwise. Then, use a spoon to scoop out the flesh from the skin.

FAQ

Is dragon fruit good for you?

Yes, dragon fruit is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help boost your immune system, improve digestion, and promote healthy skin.

Can you eat dragon fruit seeds?

Yes, the small black seeds inside dragon fruit are edible and contain healthy fats and fiber.

How long does dragon fruit last?

Dragon fruit can last up to one week when stored in the refrigerator.