Hylocereus megalanthus (Yellow Dragon Fruit) Cutting

Description

Hylocereus megalanthus (currently classified by many botanists as Selenicereus megalanthus) is a climbing cactus native to the Andean regions of South America. Commonly known as Yellow Dragon Fruit or Yellow Pitaya, it is prized for its sweet, aromatic fruit and ornamental night-blooming flowers.

Unlike the more common red-skinned dragon fruit varieties, Yellow Dragon Fruit produces bright yellow fruits covered with small spines that are removed before eating. The white flesh is exceptionally sweet, often containing higher sugar levels than red dragon fruit varieties, with a flavour reminiscent of kiwi, pear, and melon.

This vigorous climbing cactus produces long, segmented stems that require support from a trellis, fence, or post. Large, fragrant white flowers open at night and are pollinated by moths, bats, and other nocturnal pollinators. In cultivation, hand pollination can improve fruit set and yields.

Popular among home gardeners and commercial growers alike, Yellow Dragon Fruit is valued for its delicious fruit, attractive growth habit, and spectacular flowering display. Its combination of productivity, ornamental appeal, and exceptional sweetness makes it one of the most sought-after dragon fruit species for subtropical and tropical gardens.

Your cutting needs to be callused before being ready for planting. Leave to dry for several days prior to planting. Cactus species are among the easiest plants to root at home. The process works any time of year, but cactus cuttings potted in late summer to early autumn root fastest. Fill an adequately sized pot with a half half mixture of high quality potting mix and perlite. The potting mix should consist of well composted pine bark and large particles, this ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage.

• Accepted Syn.

Selenicereus megalanthus

• Specifications.

10-20cm Length
Unrooted Cutting

Ideal Growing Conditions.

Hylocereus megalanthus thrives in warm, frost-free climates and prefers well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and regular watering during active growth. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant and can produce abundant crops for many years. Frost sensitive. Requires a strong climbing frame.

Pruning: Hylocereus megalanthus benefits from regular pruning to maintain a manageable size, improve airflow, encourage flowering, and maximise fruit production. Avoid heavy pruning during cool weather or periods of slow growth.

Pests and Diseases: Monitor your plant for pests like mealybugs, scale, ants, aphids or spider mites. Hylocereus megalanthus is generally robust and relatively easy to grow, but it can be affected by several pests, particularly in warm, humid conditions or where plants are densely grown. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap, Eco Oil or Neem Oil

Soil: You need a high quality potting mix, not a pre-bagged product such as you find at Bunnings etc, try a landscaping place. However, as I am not local to you I still can’t say if they have good quality or not. You are looking for well composted pine bark and large particles. This ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage.

We recommend Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day for a fertiliser, which can be found in our store, however any good quality slow release fertiliser will do. When time to re-pot, select a pot one size up ONLY and ensure it has many holes for good drainage.

Fertiliser: 

Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day Controlled Release Fertiliser

The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food

We cannot send plants to Western Australia & Tasmania due to restrictions.

We strongly recommended to select Express Post shipping for all plant orders to minimise the transit time.

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