Dragon Fruit Plant ‘American Beauty’ (Hylocereus guatemalensis hybrid)

Closely related to Orchid Cactus (epiphyllum), Dragon Fruit has fragrant flowers that bloom at night and close by morning. ‘American Beauty’s’ huge flowers are impressive in size, up to 10-16” wide. Depending on temperature and light, it can have multiple bloom cycles during the warm months of the year – up to 3 to 4 fruiting cycles once the plant is mature. The round, reddish-orange fruit has green scales and red inner flesh with edible black seeds. The fruits range in size ½ to 1 pound each and they are delicious when eaten fresh or made into juice or smoothies. This exotic fruit is commonly grown in southern zones but it can be fruited in a 7-10 gallon pot in the north. Grow on a strong support to develop a central trunk or simply elevate the pot and let it branch over the container.