Friday, November 6, 2009

I'm getting a dragon fruit!!!


As you all know, my newest obsession is the dragon fruit (see my earlier posts). I've been putting it out to the universe now for two weeks that I want to be able to obtain some here in Brisbane - and guess what?! I've purchased two cuttings (one for red flesh (which I've never seen before) and one for regular dragon fruit), and they are on their way to me as I type!!! I can't believe I'm gonna have my own trees!! Such an exciting day for me :-)
If you are wanting more info on where to buy, click here!
Here's the beautiful flower

The flower bud

and the tree .... I hope mine looks like this soon!

Here's a few interesting facts about this unusual fruit:
* The plant originated in South America and the French bought it to Vietnam (where it's now one of their biggest export products)
* They are a member of the cactus family, so they need far less water and fertiliser than most crops. The stems can grow up to 7m!
* In Australia, the flowers will begin in October, going through til May - but when they flower its only open for 1 night. The flowers are 30cm long.
* The fruit is ready approx 40 days after flowering.
* They are full of Vitamin C - Yay!!

I will keep you updated with their progress! Have a great weekend all :-)

12 comments:

Healthy Shift Worker said...

What an intriguing fruit. What do they taste like?

Unknown said...

Hi Healthy shift worker! When I get my first fruits I'll let you all know!! The ones I ate in Vietnam were very nice, but it is true they look better than they taste.
I can't wait to try the red flesh!!!! That will be a first for me! Have a lovely weekend.
Cheers!

beachvintage.com said...

Wow, healthy and beautiful too! Have fun tending to your new love.

Christina Rodrigues said...

Wow cool never seen that fruit.
Thanks for the add :)

p.s. Ur doggie patsy is adorable!

Val's Dragonfly Whimsy said...

WOW they look really out there, but very pretty too? Not only a great looking plant with beautiful flowers, but a source of food as well? - you are on a winner here buddy - I am so glad you were able to obtain the cuttings, sounds like you really really wanted them - cheers Val xo

Lorenza said...

I had never seen that fruit!
I am sure you are going to be happy when you get your trees!
Kisses and hugs
Lorenza

Mami said...

Hi,
I'm wondering how they are.Now i can figure oiut!! Thanks

{little.happy.things} said...

Never had a dragon fruit...how do they taste like? Sweet? or sour?

BonjourRomance said...

Bonjour! What an exotic looking fruit, I'd love to give it a taste.

Gigi Thibodeau said...

Wow, I love the flower! Your trees are going to be gorgeous!! xo

Holly Lefevre said...

What a beautiful tree. Lucky you!

Thanks for stopping by my place!

Holly

Kate Moore said...

Ooooh, how exciting to have a dragon fruit plant. They should do well where you are. I think I'd be stretching it through winters here. How's it been going?