Dragon Fruit 'Magenta'

Product Information

A unique form of this exotic and intriguing fruit that grows on a climbing epiphytic cactus and is best suited to hot climates. Deriving its common name from the appearance of its fruit, which is shaped like a fiery dragon's breath, exquisite curls of skin cover bright magenta-coloured flesh in early summer. This fruit looks like confectionery from the lolly shop and the taste is no disappointment. Fruit appears after pollination of the nocturnal flowers in early summer. Try growing against a north-facing wall for radiant heat, especially in cooler climates. Allow fruit to ripen on the plant prior to harvest.

Dragon fruit plants are epiphytic, vine like cacti so be aware of their prickles. They prefer a warm climate and can be grown either directly into well drained soil enriched with organic matter or in containers and large hanging baskets. Train the stems to grow and hang over a rose ring or wooden frame to encourage flowering and fruiting. Flowers appear in summer and are nocturnal, blooming for one night only. Hand pollination can increase fruit set by gathering pollen from the anther on a paint brush and transferring it to the stigma or growing with a Red dragon fruit. Grow dragon fruit in green houses or against a north facing brick wall in southern climates with protection from cold winds and frost. In hot dry climates, they may benefit from protection from the afternoon sun. Regular watering through the summer months is required, with less during winter, and the cooler months. Allow fruit to ripen on the plant prior to harvest. Apply compost in spring and fertilise with a balanced complete fertiliser in spring and autumn.