Cosmic Charlie

Description

The Cosmic Charlie dragon fruit is a hybrid variety resulting from a cross between Hylocereus guatemalensis and Hylocereus undatus. Developed by Paul Thomson, it is also known as “2S” and is renowned for its vibrant purple flesh and delightful grape-like flavor.

1. Basic Overview

• Variety Name: Cosmic Charlie
• Species: Hylocereus guatemalensis × Hylocereus undatus
• Origin: Developed by Paul Thomson, Cosmic Charlie (also known as “2S”) is a hybrid resulting from a cross between ‘Rixford’ (a purple-fleshed variety) and ‘Neitzel’ (a white-fleshed variety). It was created to enhance flavor, color, and fruit size, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and commercial growers.
• Significance: Renowned for its vibrant purple flesh, unique grape-like flavor, and striking appearance, Cosmic Charlie is a standout variety that combines ornamental beauty with exceptional taste.

2. Visual Appeal

• Whole Fruit: Cosmic Charlie exhibits a striking appearance with bright pink skin adorned with green scales, making it visually appealing and easily distinguishable.
• Cross-Section: When sliced open, it reveals vibrant purple flesh speckled with small black seeds, offering a colorful and appetizing presentation.
• Flowers and Plant: The plant produces large, nocturnal white flowers that bloom at night, adding ornamental value to gardens.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Skin Color and Texture: The fruit’s skin is bright pink with green scales, and it remains firm, protecting the delicate flesh inside.
• Flesh Color: Vibrant purple.
• Fruit Size and Shape: Fruits are medium to large, typically weighing between 0.75 to 1.5 pounds (340 to 680 grams).
• Seed Distribution: Numerous small black seeds are evenly distributed throughout the flesh, adding a subtle crunch to the texture.

4. Taste Profile

• Flavor Description: Cosmic Charlie is known for its superb grape-like flavor, with some descriptions noting a kiwi-like taste, providing a sweet and mildly tangy experience.
• Sweetness Level: It has a moderate to high sweetness level, with Brix scores averaging between 18 to 19, indicating a pleasant and balanced sweetness.

5. Growing Characteristics

• Climate Requirements: Prefers tropical to subtropical climates and is sensitive to frost. It thrives in warm temperatures with adequate humidity.
• Plant Type: A fast-growing, climbing cactus with green, three-sided stems and small spines on the ribs, similar to Hylocereus undatus growth.
• Flowering Habits: The plant produces large, white, nocturnal flowers that open at night and close by morning, typical of dragon fruit varieties.
• Pollination: While some sources suggest that Cosmic Charlie is self-fertile, others, including growers’ experiences, indicate that it is self-sterile and requires cross-pollination with another compatible variety to set fruit.

6. Cultivation Tips

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH (6.6–7.3). Incorporating sand or volcanic soil can enhance drainage.
• Sunlight and Temperature Needs: Requires full to partial sun exposure. Protect from frost and extreme temperatures to prevent stress and potential growth issues.
• Watering Needs: Drought-hardy; water moderately and allow the soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Support Structures: Provide trellises or stakes to support the climbing growth habit and ensure proper air circulation.

7. Harvesting and Productivity

• Harvest Time: Fruits are typically ready for harvest approximately 30 to 45 days after flowering, depending on growing conditions.
• Fruit Yield per Plant: Under optimal conditions, the plant can produce multiple medium to large-sized fruits per season.
• Ripening Indicators: The fruit’s skin changes from green to bright pink as it ripens. Harvest when the skin color is vibrant, and the fruit gives slightly under gentle pressure.

8. Uses and Applications

• Culinary Uses: Excellent for fresh consumption, in smoothies, salads, as a garnish, or in desserts. Its grape-like flavor and vibrant color enhance a variety of culinary creations.
• Nutritional Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and dietary fiber, contributing to overall health and wellness.
• Ornamental Uses: The plant’s attractive flowers and unique fruit make it a desirable addition to gardens and landscapes.

9. Fun Facts

• Unique Hybridization: Cosmic Charlie, also known as “2S,” is a hybrid created by Paul Thomson, resulting from a cross between ‘Rixford’ (a purple-fleshed variety) and ‘Neitzel’ (a white-fleshed variety).
• Nocturnal Bloomer: The large, white flowers bloom at night, adding an element of intrigue and beauty to nighttime gardens.

10. Comparison Chart

Variety Name	Flesh Color	Skin Color	Average Weight	Brix Rating	Pollination
Cosmic Charlie	Purple	Bright pink with green scales	0.75–1.5 lbs	18–19	Self-sterile
Purple Haze	Light purple	Dark pink with green scales	0.75–1.25 lbs	18–20	Self-fertile
Dark Star	Light pink	Dark pink with green scales	0.75–1.25 lbs	18–20	Self-fertile

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is Cosmic Charlie dragon fruit self-pollinating?
  • While some sources suggest it is self-fertile, many growers have found it to be self-sterile, requiring cross-pollination with another variety to set fruit.

• What makes Cosmic Charlie unique among dragon fruit varieties?
  • Its vibrant purple flesh, grape-like flavor, and striking bright pink skin with green scales make Cosmic Charlie a standout variety. Additionally, its origins as a hybrid of ‘Rixford’ and ‘Neitzel’ contribute to its unique characteristics.
• What is the best method to ensure fruiting with Cosmic Charlie?
  • Since Cosmic Charlie is typically self-sterile, cross-pollination with another compatible variety is essential. Choose a variety that blooms at the same time to maximize pollination success.
• How long does it take for Cosmic Charlie to produce fruit?
  • The fruit typically ripens within 30–45 days after flowering, depending on environmental conditions and care.

12. Reviews/Testimonials

• User Reviews:
  • “Cosmic Charlie is a gem in my garden! Its purple flesh and grape-like flavor are always a hit with my family.”
  • “The striking color and sweet flavor make it a favorite at our local farmer’s market. People can’t get enough of it!”
• Grower Testimonials:
  • “This variety is reliable and grows vigorously. Its large fruits are easy to market, and the flavor is fantastic.”
  • “Although it requires cross-pollination, the rewards are worth it. The vibrant purple flesh is stunning and tastes even better than it looks.”