The dragon fruit / pitaya plant is a climbing cactus vine that grows well in dry areas. Because of its epiphytic nature, it grows best in soil with a high level of organic materials. The flowers are white and large sometimes measuring 30cm and larger. They are ornate and produce a sweet fragrance when in bloom. The flowers bloom for one night only. Dragon fruits are also called cactus fruits. They are closely related to the orchid cacti or epiphyllum. Epiphyllums are known for their large and impressive flowers. The fruit is popularly eaten raw and tastes better chilled. It is also served as a juice. The flesh is sweet and sometimes served with mango in a tropical sorbet. Dragon fruits reputedly improve eyesight and prevent hypertension. The seeds of the fruit supposed help in controlling blood glucose levels in people with non-insulin-dependent hyperglycaemic conditions (a kind of diabetes). It is also used to treat stomach and endocrine problems.
LA Woman is a white flesh variety that is tangy with a watermelon texture and small edible seeds. It has night-blooming large fragrant flowers that emerge round November/ December . When pollination occurs an egg-shaped pink coloured fruit will appear. It is a fact, that the dramatic colour contrast between the inside and outside is what makes this variety so popular among growers and consumers worldwide. Stems are three-sided with small spines along the rib. Budding is very heavy and is suggested to thin out to produce even larger fruit. If you are a first time Dragon Fruit grower, this is the choice for you. The main reason why, is this variety is self-pollinating meaning it will set fruit without being hand pollinated.
