Selenicereus undatus
TAXONOMY
FamilyCactaceae
GenusSelenicereus
Zone10
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Selenicereus undatus, commonly known as Dragon Fruit or Pitaya, is a member of the Cactaceae family. Native to seasonally dry tropical climates, this succulent epiphyte is known for its striking night-blooming flowers and vibrant, edible fruit. It thrives in warm environments and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. The plant undergoes a dormancy period of about two months during cooler seasons.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Buah Naga
Cereus Tricostatus
Dragon Fruit
Night-Blooming Cactus
Night Blooming Cerus
Pitaya
Queen-Of-The-Night
Cereus undatus
Hylocereus tricostatus
Hylocereus undatus
Hylocereus undatus subsp. luteocarpus
OVERVIEW
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
GDD2,700
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Dragon Fruit plants require bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. They thrive in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, and ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Regular pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and encourages fruit production.Harvest
Selenicereus undatus, commonly known as dragon fruit, is typically ready for harvest about 30 to 50 days after flowering. The fruit should be harvested when the skin color changes from green to a vibrant pink or red, indicating ripeness. To harvest, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the stem, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to the fruit. It is important to handle the fruit gently to avoid bruising. Harvesting should be done in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, which can stress the plant.Soil
Dragon Fruit plants prefer well-draining loam soil. A mix designed for cacti and succulents works well. Ensure the soil dries out almost completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Good drainage is essential for the health of the plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every month during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the dormancy period. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.Repotting
Repot Dragon Fruit plants every 2-3 years or when they outgrow their current container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Dragon Fruit can be propagated from cuttings or seeds. Cuttings are the most common method; take a healthy segment of the stem, let it dry for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil. Propagation is best done in the spring or early summer.Pruning
Prune Dragon Fruit plants to remove dead or damaged stems and to shape the plant. Pruning encourages better air circulation and light penetration, which can enhance fruit production. Prune during the growing season for best results.Toxicity
Dragon Fruit plants are non-toxic to pets and humans. The fruit is edible and highly nutritious, but the plant's spines can cause minor skin irritation if handled without care.Additional
Dragon Fruit plants can benefit from a trellis or support structure to help them grow upright and manage their weight as they mature. This also aids in better air circulation and light exposure.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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