Dragon fruit originates in Central and South America. We call this interesting plant a fruit, but it is actually a cactus. Dragon fruit is grown in Asia, Mexico, Central America, South America, and Israel today.

Where does the dragon fruit come from?

What Is Dragon Fruit? Dragon fruit is a food that grows on a climbing cactus called hylocereus, which you’ll find in tropical regions around the world. The plant’s name comes from the Greek word “hyle,” which means “woody,” and the Latin word “cereus,” which means “waxen.”

Which country is famous for dragon fruit?

Today, Vietnam is the world’s leading exporter of Dragon Fruit, with revenues from Dragon Fruit making up 55 percent of the country’s fruit export turnover. The fruit is popular across Southeast Asia.

Where does dragon fruit grow naturally?

Native Habitat The dragon fruit is native to Central America and has been found growing wild in southern Mexico, Costa Rica and El Salvador. Other areas where these plants were originally found include Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Panama and Uruguay.

Is dragon fruit Filipino?

The dragon fruit was introduced in the Philippines in the 1900s through trading and exchange of goods by the Spaniards and Filipinos (Aquino, 2005). The crop is also grown in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia and Taiwan.

Is dragon fruit from Mexico?

In Mexico, the dragon fruit or pitaya harvest occurs between May and June and lasts for six weeks. It’s grown mainly in the highlands in the state of Jalisco, near its capital city of Guadalajara. One may find the fruit in local markets, or simply in the streets.

Is dragon fruit a Superfood?

Dragon fruit can be considered as a superfood, being low in calories but high in fibre, antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals, and containing healthy fatty acids and probiotics. Antioxidants are essential to protect cells from free radical damage, which cause chronic disease and ageing.

Is Blue dragon fruit real?

The blue dragon fruit with red flesh is rich in vitamins and nutrition. Nhung’s family is growing seedlings to sell to other households in the district. Many families that have hilly land have shifted from growing cassava to growing dragon plants.

Is dragon fruit a cactus?

While you may not initially equate “cactus” with “edible,” the dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is indeed borne on a cactus. When the fruit is cut open, the flesh is revealed to be snow-white and peppered with tiny, edible black seeds throughout — quite a contrast to the exterior.

Which country produces the most dragon fruit?

The world’s largest producer and exporter of dragon fruit is Vietnam, where the plant was brought by the French in the 19th century. The Vietnamese call it thanh long, which translates to “dragon’s eyes”, believed to be the origin of its common English name.

Does a dragon fruit grow on a tree?

Dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus), also known as pitahaya, is native to Central and South America and needs year-round heat. Dragon fruit trees are vining, and need something to climb. They are also heavy – a mature plant can reach 25 feet (7.5 m.) and several hundred pounds.

Is the skin of dragon fruit poisonous?

As noted above, the dragon fruit skin is not poisonous and is in fact very healthy. Therefore, you should consider your perception towards the dragon fruit skin. It is not only healthy, but delicious too.

Can I eat dragon fruit everyday?

The benefits of eating dragon fruit The daily recommendation for adults is at least 25 grams — and dragon fruit packs 7 grams in a single 1-cup serving. “Fiber, may benefit gastrointestinal and cardiovascular health,” notes Ilic. “Fiber is also filling, which is helpful if you’re trying to lose weight.

What fruit is native to Philippines?

MARANG and mabolo, pili and galo – these are fruits all endemic to the Philippines. Yet, they and the many other native fruit and nut species are not the country’s major crops today. What usually grace Filipino tables are banana, durian, jackfruit, mangosteen, pummel, and rambutan.

What fruit is originated from Philippines?

The mango is the national fruit of the Phillipines. The Philippine mango or “mangga” is grown in many parts of the country and comes in different varieties including the Manila mango, honey mango and carabao mango.

What is the national fruit of Philippines?

Mangoes are the national fruit of the Philippines and are grown by around two and a half million smallholder farmers on over 7 million mango trees.