When we think of exotic fruits, dragon fruit often comes to mind with its vibrant colors and unique appearance! Among the amazing tasty varieties of dragon fruit, the Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit stands out! The Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit is one of the rare and elite varieties of Dragon fruits.
The Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit is known for its striking look but also for its rich flavor and not-to-forget nutritional benefits. We can claim it as a superfruit; with a number of healthy nutrients, antioxidants, and a brix level of 15. Thus in the Natural Mystic dragon fruit is a hidden treasure trove of health, culinary, and ecological significance, making it a favorite among fruit lovers and health-conscious individuals alike.
Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit is a remarkable hybrid variety.
Genus: Hylocereus
Species: Hylocereus polyrhizus X Hylocereus undatus
Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit was introduced to Florida from Thailand. Now, it is commercially grown in Homestead, where it thrives in the local climate.
Features of Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit
What sets Natural Mystic apart is because of two main reasons:
- Most dragon fruits have white or pink interiors, but the Natural Mystic has a vibrant red flesh. This is a rare and desirable trait.
- Unlike many other dragon fruit varieties that require pollination from another plant to produce fruit, the Natural Mystic can fertilize itself. This means it can grow and produce fruit on its own, making it easier to cultivate.
This fruit has gained popularity for its unique characteristics and ease of cultivation
Exterior of Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit
Color: The fruit typically has a vibrant red or crimson exterior.
Shape: It is oval-shaped, often with a slightly elongated form.
Size: The fruit can vary in size, but it generally weighs around 1 pound.
Texture: The skin is covered in small, green scales.
Interior of Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit
Color: The flesh is a deep red or magenta color.
Texture: The flesh is soft and juicy.
Seeds: Numerous small, black, crunchy edible embedded seeds
Flavor: The fruit has a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, often compared to a watermelon or kiwi.
Now something about Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit Plant….
The Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit is a vine-like plant. Here are some of its key characteristics:
Growth Habits of Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit
The plant has a vining growth habit, climbing on structures or trellises. While the stems are fleshy, triangular in shape, and covered in small spines.
We already know that Dragon fruit is a cactus, and the dragon fruit plant does not have true leaves. Instead, it has flattened stems that perform the functions of leaves.
Well, talking about the flowers; they are enigmatic, beautifully large, white, and fragrant. They bloom at night. The flowers have a long, tubular base and wide, open petals. The flowers usually appear in fall, spring, and summer, followed by the development of round, red fruits
The Natural Mystic Dragon fruit plant is usually propagated from cuttings available online. But, Seeds can also be used for propagation. However, it is obvious that it takes longer for seedlings to mature.
Let’s go through a quick guide about the Growing conditions of this beautiful Dragon fruit variety…
The growth of Natural Mystic is distinctive! When compared to other Dragon Fruit varieties. The plant matures with meaty flesh on its three-sided stems, adorned with small to medium-sized spines.
Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit is a perennial (in simple words; evergreen) that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a versatile choice for growers.
The plant can reach impressive dimensions, growing up to 20 feet in both height and width. Natural Mystic fits well into USDA Zones 9a to 11. Where, it can show optimum growth while resisting heat, humidity, and diseases like verticillium wilt.
It likes temperatures between 65-85°F (18-29°C) and requires not more than 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day with high humidity levels but can tolerate moderate humidity.
For proper growth, you need to provide well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic pH of 5.5-6.5.
You have to maintain regular watering, especially during dry periods. But always ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
For optimum growth of your Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit plant, fertilize the soil regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilizing every 4-6 weeks is good!
Moreover, to maintain the shape and promote fruit production, pruning will be required. Experts recommend pruning your plant after the fruiting season to remove dead or weak branches. Remember that in the right conditions, Natural Mystic can produce up to four fruiting cycles per year, especially when cross-pollination is encouraged.
As it is a vine, you should provide support to grow. as it can become heavy and require additional support.
One notable challenge is its susceptibility to rust, particularly during the rainy season. However, growing Natural Mystic in well-composed material can effectively manage this issue. The appearance of rust spots can be controlled by removing affected cuttings and adding more compost, ensuring the plant’s health and productivity.
Wrapping Up
Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit is a truly exceptional variety among Dragon Fruits. It combines unique growth characteristics, nutritional benefits, and easy cultivation traits.
Well being self-fertile in nature, and with its tolerance to heat and humidity, its plant can become a valuable addition to any garden, whether for personal enjoyment or commercial production.
For Natural Mystic Dragon fruit; the rich red flesh, 15 brix ratios, and versatile culinary uses, Natural Mystic is a fruit that delivers both in flavor and health benefits!
FAQs
What are the nutritional benefits of Natural Mystic Dragon fruit?
Natural Mystic Dragon fruit’s deep red flesh is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, making it a healthy addition to any diet. These nutrients contribute to better digestion, improved skin health, and a boosted immune system, making Natural Mystic a superfruit in its own right.
What are the culinary uses of Natural Mystic Dragon fruit?
Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit has vast culinary potential. It has a sweet refreshing taste, best for fresh consumption. or mixed with salads and desserts. Add it as a flavorful ingredient in pies, pastries, and drinks.
Is Natural Mystic Dragon fruit a Paul Thompson Hybrid?
No, Natural Mystic Dragon fruit is a hybrid but not Paul Thompson’s.
What are pigments responsible for color in Dragon fruits?
Name all the pigments found in Natural Mystic Dragon fruits?
Anthocyanins are the primary pigments found in Natural Mystic Dragon Fruit, contributing to its vibrant red color. They are flavonoids exibit antioxidant properties. Other pigments present in smaller quantities are betalains or carotenoids.
