While you may not initially equate “cactus” with “edible,” the dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is indeed borne on a cactus. When the fruit is cut open, the flesh is revealed to be snow-white and peppered with tiny, edible black seeds throughout — quite a contrast to the exterior.

What cactus does dragon fruit come from?

A Dragon Fruit Cactus

The Hylocereus is a vine-y cactus native to Central and South America, but is now cultivated extensively throughout Southeast Asia for sweet, bright pink pitaya, commonly referred to as dragon fruit.

What is another name for dragon fruit?

In the Eastern hemisphere, the fruit is typically known as “dragon fruit,” and in the Western hemisphere, the fruit is typically known as “pitahaya” or “pitaya.” Numerous synonyms and frequent misidentifications exist for the commodity.