Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya or pitahaya, is a distinctive tropical fruit recognized for its vibrant colors and unique appearance. Produced by a type of cactus, it often features characteristic scale-like structures on its exterior.
Understanding Dragon Fruit Spikes
Dragon fruit plants are members of the cactus family. Like many cacti, they possess protective structures often called spikes, thorns, or spines, typically located along the edges of the plant’s stems or vines. On some varieties, especially yellow-skinned types, these sharp projections can also be present on the fruit’s skin.
The primary function of these spikes is biological defense, acting as a natural deterrent against herbivores. They protect the plant and its developing fruit from being consumed by animals as they ripen. Their presence means careful handling is often necessary.
Safe Handling and Removal
Handling dragon fruit, especially certain varieties, requires attention due to the presence of spikes. Yellow dragon fruit, for instance, commonly features sharp, thin thorns on its skin. To avoid discomfort, wear gardening gloves when harvesting or handling the fruit directly from the plant.
When ripe, these thorns become less firmly attached and are easily removed. A common method involves gently brushing the fruit’s surface with a clean dust bin brush or stiff paintbrush. This action dislodges the spikes, making the fruit safe to touch and prepare. After brushing, wash the fruit thoroughly under running water, using a soft brush to clean any remaining debris from its scales before cutting.
Should a spike inadvertently prick the skin, it typically causes a localized histamine response, resulting in itching or redness, but the spikes are not poisonous. Promptly clean the affected area with rubbing alcohol. If a small piece remains embedded, carefully remove it with sterilized tweezers or a needle to prevent infection.
Are Dragon Fruit Spikes Edible?
The spikes found on dragon fruit are not intended for consumption. They are sharp and indigestible, and ingesting them could cause irritation to the mouth and digestive tract. Therefore, ensure all spikes are removed from the fruit before it is consumed or prepared.
Variations in Spikiness
The presence and prominence of spikes vary significantly among different dragon fruit varieties. While most dragon fruit species have thorns on their plant stems, not all fruit varieties bear them on their skin. For example, many red-skinned dragon fruit varieties typically do not have thorns on the fruit itself, though the plant’s vines will.
Conversely, the yellow dragon fruit (Selenicereus megalanthus) is well-known for having noticeable thorns directly on its skin. Some cultivated varieties, such as Hylocereus undatus (which produces white-fleshed, pink-skinned fruit), tend to have fewer and smaller thorns on their stems compared to other species like Hylocereus costaricensis or Hylocereus megalanthus. Plant breeders have also developed hybrid varieties that exhibit minimal to no thorns, offering options for gardeners who prefer easier handling.