Dark Star Dragon Fruit: Hylocereus undatus x Hylocereus guatemalensis
The Dark Star Dragon Fruit is also recognized as the Pitaya 9-S or S9. It is a Hybrid Dragon fruit developed by renowned dragon fruit breeder, Paul Thompson. The Dark Star Dragon Fruit is a stunning variety of dragon fruit (or pitaya) that stands out with its vibrant, almost mystical appearance. The exterior is a rich, deep magenta, often with slightly green-tipped scales. This bright, spiky skin encases a soft, fleshy interior. The flesh is typically more darker shade and a beautiful shade of violet or dark red. Well, the shade of flesh is dependent on the ripeness of the fruit. The flesh is speckled with tiny black seeds, which add a pleasant crunch to the fruit’s texture.
Is The Dark Star Dragon Fruit also known as 9-S?
Yes, the Dark Star Dragon Fruit is also known as the 9-S variety. This name is used to refer to the special Dark Star Dragon Fruit hybrid in horticultural circles and by growers.
The name “9-S” is a special label for different types of dragon fruit. Many of these types were created by Paul Thompson, a famous expert on growing dragon fruit hybrids.
The name “Dark Star” is more commonly used in commercial and culinary contexts, while “9-S or S9” might be encountered more in agricultural or gardening discussions.
Something about Paul Thomson…
Paul Thomson; is a remarkable name in the world of horticulturists in the USA. He played a crucial role in introducing and popularizing exotic fruits in the United States. Paul Thomson (June 29, 1916 – May 31, 2008) was a self-taught expert with a deep passion for plants.
Thomson experimented with different varieties of Dragon fruits and developed several unique hybrids. His work helped establish dragon fruit as a popular and commercially viable crop in the region.
Beyond dragon fruit, Thomson was also interested in other wide range of exotic fruits and plants. His knowledge and enthusiasm led to the co-founding of the California Rare Fruit Growers Association, a group dedicated to sharing information and promoting the cultivation of unusual fruits.
Thanks to dedicated botanists like Paul Thomson, we can now enjoy a greater variety of delicious and nutritious fruits.
What are Hybrid Dragon Fruits?
A hybrid dragon fruit are type of fruit produced from cross-pollinating two different dragon fruit varieties. This process combines the genetic traits of both parent plants. It results in getting a new variety of Dragon fruit with unique characteristics.
Why Create Hybrids?
Improved taste: Hybrids can offer enhanced flavor profiles, sweetness, or texture.
Increased fruit size: Some hybrids produce larger fruits.
Enhanced disease resistance: Certain hybrids may be more resistant to pests and diseases.
Unique appearance: Hybrids can have distinctive colors, shapes, or skin textures.
Popular hybrid dragon fruit varieties often result from careful breeding programs. But they offer exciting new flavors and characteristics for fruit lovers…
Here are some of famous Paul Thomson’s dragon fruit hybrids:
- Dark Star Dragon Fruit (S9)
- Physical Graffiti Dragon Fruit
- Haley’s Comet Dragon Fruit
- Purple Haze Dragon Fruit (explore this beauty in the dedicated article..https://tasteofdragonfruit.com/purple-haze-dragon-fruit/)
- Cosmic Charlie Dragon Fruit
- American Beauty Dragon Fruit
- Sugar Dragon (S8) Dragon Fruit
Dark Star Dragon Fruit
Let’s explore some of the distinguishing features of Dark Star Dragon Fruit!
Physical Features of Dark Star Dragon Fruit
Exterior
- The oval to oblong-shaped Dark Star Dragon Fruit has vibrant, deep magenta or reddish-purple skin. The color is striking and uniform.
- Dark Star Dragon Fruit is covered in spiky, fleshy scales. These scales are slightly curved. The not-so-sharp scales add contrast to the overall magenta color of Dark Haza Dragon fruits with greenish tips.
- It typically measures about 4 to 6 inches in length.
Interior
When you cut it open, the Dark Star reveals a beautiful deep violet or dark red flesh. This rich coloration is one of the most distinctive features of this variety. Of course, this nutritious pigmentation of Dark Star Dragon Fruit gives a particular attractiveness in culinary presentations.
Who doesn’t love crunch? The crunchy, tiny black Dragon fruit seeds typically measuring around 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter (found in every variety of Dragon fruit) add a separate delight to the fruit’s otherwise smooth and creamy texture.
Flavor and Taste of Dark Star Dragon Fruit
People love the Dark Star Dragon Fruit due to its irresistible flavor.
The taste of Dark Star Dragon Fruit is often described as a mild blend of pear and kiwi. It’s subtly sweet with a refreshing taste. Some people also compare it to a less intense watermelon flavor. kiwi, and berry, with a refreshing, juicy quality.
Size and Weight of Dark Star Dragon Fruit
Like every other fruit, the Dark Star Dragon Fruit varies in size. But typically weighs between 300 to 600 grams. Its size and weight can fluctuate based on growing conditions, such as climate, soil quality, and care provided during cultivation.
Nutritional Profile of Dark Star Dragon Fruit
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a 300-gram serving of dragon fruit:
- Calories in Dragon fruit (300 gm): 180 kcal
- Carbohydrates in Dragon fruit (300 gm): 45 grams
- Sugars: 30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 6 grams
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 0.6 grams
- Vitamin C: 12 mg (20% of the Daily Value)
- Calcium: 30 mg (3% of the Daily Value)
- Iron: 1.8 mg (10% of the Daily Value)
- Magnesium: 54 mg (13% of the Daily Value)
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 0.15 mg (12% of the Daily Value)
Health Benefits of Dark Star Dragon Fruit
Most important for fitness freaks, the Dark Star Dragon Fruit is quite low in calories. Thus, it is a great snack option for those watching their intake. It aids in digestion and promotes gut health while being high in dietary fiber. Moreover, it is rich in vitamin C. It can boost your immune system. Vitamin C also increases collagen production resulting in plumping your healthy skin.
The rich pink color of the Dark Star Dragon Fruit is due to certain antioxidants like betacyanin, lycopene, hesperidin, and beta-carotene. These antioxidants are very helpful to fight free radicals in the body.
Magnesium and Iron in Dark Star Dragon Fruit also benefit the body’s normal physiology and maintain health.
So many benefits… Why don’t you add this beneficial yet beautiful plant to your home garden? We can help you with it as well!!
Growing Dark Star Dragon Fruit at Home
Yes, you can cultivate Dark Star Dragon Fruit at home! While it might require some patience and specific conditions, it’s certainly possible.
Important Factors!
Climate: Dragon fruit plants ask for warmth 😉 They grow best in tropical, or subtropical climates. So, if you live in a region with cold winters, you might need to grow it indoors or in a greenhouse.
Space: Dragon fruit plants are not-so-small. They are quite large and climbing! So you’ll need adequate space (most probably; adequate height) for them to grow.
Light: They require plenty of sunlight, so a sunny spot is essential.
Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial to prevent root rot.
Pollination: Dark Star Dragon Fruit is primarily self-pollinating! This means that a single flower on the plant can fertilize itself to produce fruit.
However, cross-pollination, where pollen from one flower is transferred to another, can often lead to increased fruit set and larger fruit.
Growing Methods:
You can grow Dark Star Dragon Fruit in large pots or containers. Well, if you are living in a suitable climate, as discussed above, plant directly your baby Dark Star Dragon Fruit plant in the ground. Planting in the ground can probably yield larger plants and more fruit.
Growing dragon fruit from seed is a time-consuming process and requires patience. A more easy method is to get a cutting from an established plant of Dragon fruit, plant in a pot or ground, and enjoy seeing it growing!!!
FAQs
What is a Dark Star Dragon Fruit?
A Dark Star Dragon Fruit is a hybrid of Hylocereus undatus x Hylocereus guatemalensis. It is a specific variety of dragon fruit known for its deep purple skin and flesh. It’s also referred to as the 9-S variety.
What does Dark Star Dragon Fruit taste like?
The taste is often described as a sweet blend of pear and kiwi with a refreshing flavor.
Is Dark Star Dragon Fruit good for you?
Yes, it’s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
Can I grow Dark Star Dragon Fruit at home?
Yes, with the right conditions, and in a warm climate, you can grow Dark Star Dragon Fruit at home.
How long does it take for a Dark Star Dragon Fruit plant to bear fruit?
It typically takes 1-2 years for a Dark Star Dragon Fruit plant to start producing fruit.
What are common pests and diseases that affect Dark Star Dragon Fruit plants?
Common pests include scale insects and mealybugs. Diseases like fungal infections can also be a problem.
Are there any antioxidants in Dark Star Dragon Fruit?
Yes, it’s packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, lycopene, hesperidin, and betalains.
Can Dark Star Dragon Fruit help with weight loss?
Yes, it has a low-calorie count, and high fiber content can support weight management.
Culinary Uses
How can I eat Dark Star Dragon Fruit?
You can eat it fresh, blend it into smoothies, add it to salads, or use it in desserts.
Can I freeze Dark Star Dragon Fruit?
Yes, you can freeze dragon fruit for later use in smoothies or other recipes.
Want to know about more delicious and beautiful hybrid Dragon fruits? read about Physical Graffiti Dragon fruit, you will love this one too!
