Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or pitahaya, is a tropical fruit recognized for its striking appearance. This fruit, which grows on a cactus, features vibrant, often pink or yellow, skin with leafy scales, resembling a dragon. Inside, its flesh is white or colored and speckled with tiny black seeds. Its aesthetic and refreshing qualities have contributed to its increasing popularity.
The Primary Dragon Fruit Varieties
Dragon fruit varieties are primarily categorized by their skin and flesh color. The three main commercially cultivated varieties belong to the genus Selenicereus. These include the white-fleshed, red-skinned variety, the red or pink-fleshed, red-skinned type, and the white-fleshed, yellow-skinned fruit.
The most common and widely available type is Selenicereus undatus, characterized by its bright pink or red skin and white flesh. This variety is widely cultivated and available. Another common type is Selenicereus costaricensis, which features red or deep pink skin and vividly colored red or magenta flesh. It has a more intense coloration.
A distinct variety is the yellow-skinned dragon fruit, Selenicereus megalanthus, which has bright yellow skin and firm white flesh. It is native to northern South America and stands out visually from its red-skinned counterparts. Hybrid varieties also exist, including purple-fleshed dragon fruits like ‘Purple Haze’ or ‘Dark Star’.
Key Characteristics of Each Variety
The different types of dragon fruit offer varied taste profiles, textures, and appearance nuances. The white-fleshed, red-skinned Selenicereus undatus typically has a mild, subtly sweet flavor, often described as a blend of pear and kiwi. Its flesh is generally smooth with a slight crunch from the numerous small black seeds. This variety is widely available and can be found year-round due to global sourcing, though its peak season in many regions is summer.
The red or pink-fleshed varieties, such as Selenicereus costaricensis, are sweeter and possess a more pronounced flavor, sometimes with berry-like notes. The flesh of these types often has a firmer texture compared to the white-fleshed variety, and their vibrant color can temporarily stain hands or surfaces. These varieties are also commonly available, with a peak season extending from June to November.
The yellow-skinned Selenicereus megalanthus is considered the sweetest among the common varieties, offering a honey-like sweetness with tangy or floral undertones. Its white flesh is firm and juicy, and refreshing. Unlike the red-skinned types, Selenicereus megalanthus can have small thorns on its skin when immature, which fall off as the fruit ripens. This variety is available year-round, with a peak in fall and early summer.