Dragon fruit (Selenicereus undatus)
Care, watering, light and tips for Dragon fruit on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cactaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–40 °C
About Dragon fruit
Selenicereus undatus, commonly known as Pitahaya or Dragon Fruit, is an epiphytic or lithophytic cactus with fleshy, triangular stems that produces showy and delicious fruits. Its long, often climbing, trailing branches make it ideal for hanging baskets or as an ornamental plant on pergolas and walls, where its nocturnal blooms and tropical fruits can be admired.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It requires direct or very bright sunlight for good fruiting, although it appreciates some partial shade during the hottest parts of the day. Watering should be regular during the growing season, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, and reduced in winter. Use a well-draining substrate, preferably a cactus and succulent mix. Avoid waterlogging, as it is the main cause of root rot in this species.
How to save a dying Dragon fruit
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or black stems at base, dark spots, lack of growth and flowering.
- First aid
- Inspect roots for rot, cut affected stems with disinfected knife, apply fungicide, repot in dry, well-draining substrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (especially in winter), water-retaining substrate, lack of direct light, prolonged low temperatures.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't reached the main stem base. Act quickly and decisively.