Have you ever seen dragon fruit? Learn about the nutritional value and health benefits of dragon fruit!

The nutritional value of

pitaya

Nutritional Value (per 100g)

  • Antioxidants: Rich in betalains (red pigment) and vitamin C (34% DV).
  • Fiber: 3g - Supports digestion and gut health.
  • Low Sugar: Only 9g natural sugars, low glycemic index (GI 48).
  • Magnesium: 18% DV - Essential for muscle and nerve function.
  • Iron: 4% DV - Rare in fruits, helps combat anemia.
  • Prebiotics: Oligosaccharides feed beneficial gut bacteria.

Health Benefits

  • ✔ Skin Health: Vitamin C boosts collagen production.
  • ✔ Heart Protection: Betalains reduce oxidative stress.
  • ✔ Blood Sugar Control: Fiber slows glucose absorption.
  • ✔ Hydration: 90% water content with electrolytes.
  • ✔ Immunity: High in vitamin C and antioxidants.

Tip: Choose vibrant red skin with green tips. Store uncut at room temperature; refrigerate after cutting.

How to plant pitaya

1

Cactus Origin

pitaya
  • Family: Hylocereus cactus (epiphytic).
  • Climate: Tropical/Subtropical (25-30°C ideal).
2

Planting Method

  • Propagation: From cuttings (faster than seeds).
  • Support: Requires trellises for climbing.
3

Flowering

  • Night Bloom: Large white flowers open at dusk.
  • Pollination: Bats or moths in nature; often hand-pollinated.
4

Fruit Development

  • Time: 30-50 days from flower to ripe fruit.
  • Appearance: Oval with pink/red skin and green scales.
5

Harvesting

  • Signs of Ripeness: Slight softness and bright color.
  • Yield: 4-6 fruiting cycles per year.
6

Global Production

  • Top Growers: Vietnam, Colombia, Israel.
  • Season: Year-round in tropical regions.

Fun Fact: Despite its fiery name, pitaya is incredibly mild and subtly sweet!

Varieties: Red flesh (most antioxidant), white flesh (milder), yellow skin (sweetest).

Embark on our pitaya planting journey

See how dragon fruit grows on cactus vines

Dragon Fruit Dessert Making

Easy ways to enjoy this antioxidant-rich fruit at home.

Dragon fruit smoothie
Dragon Fruit Ice Cream
Dragon Fruit Mojito
Pudding Mango with Dragon Fruit Sauce