Dragon Fruit Tree Selenicereus undatus

Dragon fruit or pitaya is native from Mexico to Honduras and is found in warm tropical climates. This plant is a member of the cactus family (Cactaceae) and is a succulent, epiphyte that has fragrant, night-blooming flowers, edible, sweet-tasting fruits, and creeping and sprawling stems that can grow on trees or rocks. The scientific name comes from the Greek word selene, meaning "moon" and referring to its nocturnal flowering, compounded with Cereus, a related genus of sprawling and climbing cacti. The specific epithet, undatus, translates to "wavy edges," that is akin to the rib-like structure of the stem. Its common name hails from the hard tentacles or scales that surround the fruits.

The dragon fruit prefers bright, direct sunlight, warm temperatures, and moderate humidity. This plant also prefers well-drained, loam or cactus potting mix. Water this plant when the soil is almost completely dry and provide good air circulation to prevent disease. Provide adequate watering in the spring and summer, and up until the flowering period ends. Reduce watering during the winter months, but don't allow the plant to dry out completely.  Fertilize the plant only during the growing season. Repotting is suggested every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Pruning may be required to remove dead or damaged stems or to shape the plant. Use clean tools to prevent introducing bacterial or fungal diseases. Due to its climbing nature, a trellis or arbor will help it grow upright and offer the plant support. It may be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. 

This plant has aerial roots that appear along the length of the stems. The stems are green, sprawling, and multi-branched. The flowers are nocturnal, solitary, and only bloom for one night. The fruits produced are berries that have a dragon scale-like exterior and sweet, soft, fleshy fruit interior. The white or red flesh is speckled with tiny black seeds, and it is edible and rich in antioxidants.

It is the most cultivated species in the genus. It is harvested as a commercial crop in numerous countries, farmers can expect 5 to 6 harvest cycles each year.  Fruits range in weight from 0.5 lbs to up to 3 lbs. The fruits are also used to color juices and some alcoholic drinks. In addition to the fruits, the flowers are also edible. They are used for brewing tea.  

Dragon fruit or pitaya can be grown in containers but be sure to wear protective gloves when handling this plant due to the sharp spines along the stems. The plant is primarily grown for its sweet fruits. It also has beautiful, fragrant flowers and vining growth habit that will add interest to your home or patio. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Monitor for ants, scale, and mealybugs. Avoid anthracnose by providing the plant good air circulation. Overwatering or too much rainfall can lead to stem and root rot. Brown spots can develop from fungal or bacterial infections. Birds are attracted to fruit and may peck at the fruits. Too much sun can lead to sun-scorch and dehydration.

The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences has labeled the dragon fruit as an invasive plant and does not recommend it in Florida. It has no potential for invading North Carolina as the species is killed by frost.