Cultivation and Properties of Dragon Fruit

Originating in Central America, the dragon fruit plants were brought to Vietnam about 50 years ago. It is commonly cultivated in Vietnam under the name of "dragon's eyes" or "thanh long". Until recently, Vietnam was the only country in Asia producing dragon fruits on a commercial scale, exporting to Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, China, Taiwan, Japan and EU. Main production areas in Vietnam are: Binh Thuan, Lon An, Tien Giang. Presently farming of this fruit is developing in a few other countries like Southern China and recently in Thailand, Australia and Taiwan. Two cultivars, namely Binh Thuan and Cho Gao, are commonly grown in Vietnam. In Vietnam has successfully been bred the red-fleshed cultivar with the local ones, resulting in some outstanding clones of red-fleshed dragon fruit. It is expected this red-fleshed cultivar will be released for production within two years. The fruits, have very attractive color and shape similar to the eyes of the imaginary animal. In addition to its attractive color and shape, the dragon fruits also have a high nutritional value including vitamin C, calcium, potassium and fiber. They are claimed to reduce cholesterol that is the cause of coronary heart disease. As it helps the digestive system and also prevents cancer, the fruit is considered by some as a health fruit.