Hylocereus undatus PITAYA (plant)

Dragon Fruit, also known as Pitaya or Pitahaya, is a Mexican creeping cactus. It is primarily cultivated in Asia and Latin America. It is a perennial plant that grows very quickly.

Its white flowering generally begins after several years of cultivation.

Its fruits were named "Dragon Fruit" due to their unique appearance and their association with Asian culture. Its highly original stems (often referred to as leaves) typically measure 10 to 15 centimeters in length and feature 3 to 4 ribs.

It is a cactus with few spines and is therefore not dangerous to handle.

- Properties / Uses:

Culinary Pleasures

The Dragon Fruit, or Pitaya, is a star of exotic tables. Recognisable by its flesh dotted with crunchy seeds and its delicate flavour, it is enjoyed fresh with a spoon, in fruit salads, or blended into smoothies for vibrant colour.
Its natural sweetness and graphic appearance also make it a highly sought-after aesthetic garnish to enhance your finest pastries and desserts.

Spectacular Garden Assets

This climbing cactus is a masterpiece for the landscaper.
Ideal for dressing trellises or low walls in mild climates, it offers a unique visual spectacle: its large, ephemeral nocturnal flowers open at dusk, releasing an intense, heady fragrance.
Its vigorous growth allows you to quickly create graphic and exotic plant structures that immediately bring a "travel garden" dimension to your space.

- Culture and Planting:

• Plant the root system of your pitaya in a 3-liter pot.
• Use a substrate consisting of 50% horticultural potting soil and 50% sand.
• Drain the bottom of the pot with pozzolana or clay pebbles.
• Firm the soil around the plant during planting.
• Water copiously, then allow the substrate to dry for a few days before watering again.

- Substrate:

Use a well-draining and very aerated substrate during planting. Adding vermiculite is strongly recommended.

- Location:

Selenicereus undatus (syn. Hylocereus undatus) is grown in the sun; prioritize a location with plenty of light.

- Temperature:

It is primarily adapted to USDA hardiness zones 10-11. This means it can be successfully grown in regions where winter temperatures do not drop below -1°C, or indoors.

- Irrigation:

It is important to water directly at the base of the cactus. Do not get the stems wet.

- Reproduction:

They can be easily obtained through cuttings. Simply prune a stem and root it using the "smothering" method (under cover) in a greenhouse. Aerial roots may grow directly from the cutting.

This article was written by Julien on 07/17/2026.