White Dragon Fruit

Brief Overview of White Dragon Fruit

White dragon fruit is scientifically known as Hylocereus undatus. It is a captivating and identically beautiful tropical fruit. The White Dragon Fruit has garnered global attention due to its distinctive appearance, subtle flavour, and numerous health benefits. Belonging to the Cactaceae family, this fruit is commonly referred to as pitaya or pitahaya. There is no need to mention that it stands out for its vibrant and exotic aesthetic.

The fruit is recognized for its unique shape and colour. White Dragon fruit features a scaly, bright pink or yellow-green outer skin. The inner side has a crisp, white inner flesh speckled with tiny black seeds. Despite its cactus family affiliation, the white dragon fruit is a true tropical gem. White Dragon fruit possesses succulent and refreshing characteristics.

Origin of White Dragon fruit

According to researchers, the White dragon fruit is believed to have originated in the regions of Mexico, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua. While the plant’s natural habitat lies in Central America. Being Central American it has adapted to tropical and subtropical climates. It has gained fame due to superb taste, so over time, the cultivation of white dragon fruit has expanded to various countries across the globe, including Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines.

Cultivation of White Dragon Fruit

Farmers cultivating white dragon fruit always pay close attention to factors such as:

• Temperature
• Humidity
• Soil composition

It is very important to create an environment appropriate to grow the White Dragon fruit. Additionally, irrigation should be done very carefully because it can lead to waterlogging.

Waterlogging can cause damage to the plant’s roots. If you want to cultivate the plant of White Dragon fruit in your garden, keep in mind that the success of white dragon fruit cultivation is not only dependent on climatic factors! It is also dependent on your expertise in optimizing soil conditions where you are cultivating the plant and proper water supply.

Appearance OF White Dragon fruit

Outer skin

We all can recognize that beautiful White Dragon fruit easily! White dragon fruit is blessed with a visually appealing outer skin that is a hallmark of its unique identity.

The outer skin of our favorite White Dragon fruit is characterized by vibrant hues of bright pink or yellow-green, creating an eye-catching display. What sets it apart is the presence of scale-like formations. These scales are covering the entire outer surface. These scales are often referred to as “lenticels”.

Although the White Dragon fruit has scales on the outer skin the texture of the outer skin is smooth to the touch. The skin is generally thin. This makes White Dragon fruit quite delicate. Yet the combination of the vivid colors and unique scales makes the white dragon fruit an ornamental delight on your dinner table.

Inner flesh

The inner flesh of white dragon fruit beautifully contrasts with the visually captivating colorful outer skin. Once you peel away the outer skin of the fruit, you will get a crisp and succulent white flesh. The texture of the inner flesh will remind you of a kiwi, which provides you with a delightful crunch with every bite. This crispness adds to the overall eating experience, making it a refreshing choice, especially on warm tropical days.

The crispy seeds are edible. Some people enjoy the crispiness of black seeds more than the white flesh (personal choices! 😉 The black seeds are subtle and do not overpower the overall taste.

The flavor of the inner flesh is so refreshing and mildly sweet. It also has a noticeable but delightful hint of tartness. Scrumptious!! What a well-balanced taste profile we enjoy while having White Dragon fruit!! The combination of texture, flavor, and visual appeal makes the inner flesh of white dragon fruit a culinary delight and a sensory experience for you.

Size and weight of White Dragon Fruit

You can have white dragon fruit in a different range of sizes.

On average, the fruit can weigh anywhere from 200 to 600 grams. But, you can get a bigger size also.

The size of the fruit is influenced by factors like:

• climate
• soil quality
• agricultural practice

You can get smaller sizes of White Dragon fruit easily. However, the larger specimens can be cultivated under optimal conditions. The variation in size adds an element of diversity to the market, catering to different consumer preferences and culinary requirements.

Colour variations of White Dragon fruit

With the term “white” dragon fruit, you may have an idea of a uniform white appearance of all available varieties. But you can get different shades of whites under the banner of the category “White Dragon fruit “. Some varieties of White Dragon fruit exhibit a more intense pink or yellow hue, not only in the outer skin but also in the inner flesh.

These variations are a result of differences in growing conditions. Different factors such as sunlight exposure, temperature, and soil composition can result in the change of shades of color of both the inner side and outer skin.

Nutritional Profile of White Dragon Fruit

Macronutrients

Calories

The good news is, unlike mangoes and other tropical fruits, the is a healthy option if you are managing your daily calorie intake. On average, a 100-gram serving of White Dragon fruit provides around 60 calories only.

Carbohydrates

The primary macronutrient in white dragon fruit is carbohydrates. It is present in the form of fruit sugars. But don’t worry! White Dragon fruit has a low glycemic index (GI), making it suitable for individuals monitoring their blood sugar levels.

Protein

White dragon fruit contains a minimal amount of protein, but it contributes to the overall nutritional content.

Fat

The fruit is virtually fat-free! Excellent for you if you want a delightful refreshing and tasty low-fat snack!

Micronutrients

Vitamins

White dragon fruit is a rich source of vitamin C, providing you with a significant portion of the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C.

It also contains small amounts of B vitamins, such as:

• B1 (thiamine)
• B2 (riboflavin)
• B3 (niacin)

Minerals

The fruit contains essential minerals, including:

• Iron
• Phosphorus
• Calcium

Health benefits of White Dragon fruit

Antioxidant properties

White dragon fruit is rich in antioxidants. And you know what? Antioxidants play a crucial role in promoting overall health. Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralize free radicals in your body and decrease the oxidative stress in your body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and contribute to the aging process and the development of various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular conditions in your body.

The antioxidants found in white dragon fruit include:

• Vitamin C
• Other phytonutrients

Immune system support

As mentioned before, the White dragon fruit is notably high in vitamin C., and Vitamin C is an essential nutrient to boost immunity in your body.

The immune-enhancing capabilities of vitamin C found in white dragon fruit make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Regular consumption of this fruit can contribute to a stronger immune response. The stronger immunity ultimately results in helping your body fend off common colds, infections, and other health challenges.

Hydration

In addition to its nutritional content, the high water content of white dragon fruit contributes to your overall hydration.

Proper hydration is essential for maintaining various bodily functions, including:

• Digestion
• Circulation
• Temperature regulation

The water content in white dragon fruit supports optimal hydration levels in your body.  Consume it if you want to prevent dehydration, particularly in warm climates.

Additionally, adequate hydration is beneficial for your beauty and skin health! The hydrated skin is beautiful! Hydration helps maintain elasticity and promotes a healthy complexion.

Furthermore, sufficient hydration supports your digestive processes, aiding in nutrient absorption and waste elimination.

Growing Conditions of White Dragon Fruit

Climate requirements

• White dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus) is a tropical plant. So, it can flourish in specific climate conditions.
• It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions.
• The favorable temperature for its growth is supposed to be in the range of 65°F to 95°F (18°C to 35°C).
• These temperature preferences highlight the plant’s sensitivity to colder climates, as it is not frost-tolerant.
• Therefore, to achieve optimal growth and fruit production, it is crucial to cultivate white dragon fruit in a frost-free environment.

Soil preferences

• For growing a healthy White Dragon fruit plant, the choice of soil plays a pivotal role.
• The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• The ideal soil types for cultivation are sandy loam or loamy soils.
• These soil compositions provide the necessary drainage to prevent waterlogging, a condition that can be detrimental to the roots of the plant.

Watering and irrigation

• Adequate and appropriate watering is an undeniably important step for the successful cultivation of your white dragon fruit plant
• Your plant requires regular watering, particularly during dry periods.
• It is important to maintain optimal moisture levels in the soil. However, it is equally important to avoid waterlogged conditions.

Sunlight exposure

• Your plant of White Dragon fruit will require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight exposure is essential for flower bud formation and fruit production.
• Storage recommendations for White Dragon fruit
• While white dragon fruit is best consumed fresh, it can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Culinary Uses of White Dragon Fruit

Fresh consumption

White dragon fruit is commonly eaten fresh. You can eat it on its own or add it to fruit salads. Its mildly sweet flavor and crisp texture make it a refreshing snack.

Culinary applications

• Smoothies: The fruit’s subtle flavor and high water content make it an excellent addition to your smoothies and fruit blends.
• Salads: Cut your White Dragon fruit in the shape of dice. It will add color and flavor to green salads and fruit salads.
• Desserts: You can use White Dragon fruit in various desserts, such as sorbets, puddings, and fruit tarts.

Wrapping Up

White dragon fruit has gained global popularity for its unique appearance, mild flavor, and various health benefits, also known as pitaya or pitahaya. It is a nature’s blessing that is beautiful outside and tastiest inside. In terms of nutritional content, white dragon fruit is low in calories and fat, high in carbohydrates, and rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Its macronutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, and negligible fats, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.

Enjoy the succulent taste, refreshing feel, and uncountable benefits packed in this beautiful fruit!

White dragon fruit is a treat from nature, but the Red Dragon fruit is also full of many more benefits and nutrients, Read MORE in the next article about “Red Dragon Fruit“..!!