American beauty

Description

1. Basic Overview

• Variety Name: American Beauty
• Species: Hylocereus guatemalensis
• Origin: Originally from Guatemala, American Beauty has become popular in tropical and subtropical regions due to its vibrant appearance, exceptional flavor, and high productivity.

2. Visual Appeal

• Whole Fruit: The fruit features red skin with prominent green fins, creating a striking contrast and an exotic look.
• Cross-Section: The flesh is a vibrant magenta to deep purple, speckled with small black seeds that enhance its visual appeal.
• Flowers and Plant: The plant produces large, white, fragrant, night-blooming flowers, making it an ornamental addition to gardens.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Skin Color and Texture: Smooth red skin with slightly pronounced green bracts.
• Flesh Color: Deep magenta to purple.
• Fruit Size and Shape: Oval-shaped fruits weighing between 0.5 to 1 pound (225 to 450 grams).
• Seed Distribution: Evenly distributed tiny black seeds that contribute to a mildly crunchy texture.

4. Taste Profile

• Flavor Description: The fruit offers a sweet and mildly tangy flavor with berry-like and kiwi undertones.
• Sweetness Level: The Brix rating ranges between 17 and 19, indicating a pleasant sweetness without being overly sugary.

5. Growing Characteristics

• Climate Requirements: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates; tolerates some frost and heat but prefers consistent warmth.
• Plant Type: A vigorous climbing cactus with thick green stems that require support.
• Flowering Habits: Large white flowers bloom at night and close by morning, with repeat blooming possible during the growing season.
• Pollination: Self-fertile, making it easy for home gardeners as no cross-pollination is needed.
• Growth Rate and Yield: Fast-growing and highly productive under optimal conditions.

6. Cultivation Tips

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Sunlight and Temperature Needs: Requires full sun to partial shade. Protect from prolonged cold or extreme heat.
• Watering Needs: Moderate watering; avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.
• Support Structures: Trellises or stakes are recommended to support climbing growth and heavy fruit production.

7. Harvesting and Productivity

• Harvest Time: Fruits ripen approximately 30–40 days after flowering.
• Fruit Yield per Plant: A mature plant can produce 20–50 fruits per growing season, depending on care and conditions.
• Ripening Indicators: The fruit’s skin turns vibrant red, and it feels slightly soft when pressed gently.

8. Uses and Applications

• Culinary Uses: Ideal for fresh consumption, smoothies, desserts, fruit salads, and beverages. Its vibrant color makes it perfect for culinary presentations.
• Nutritional Benefits: High in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber; low in calories, making it a healthy snack.
• Commercial Uses: Popular in markets for its consistent size, self-fertility, and vibrant appearance.

9. Fun Facts

• Unique Traits: American Beauty is prized for its self-fertility and sweet, high-quality flesh, making it a favorite for home gardeners and commercial growers.
• Cultural Significance: Often used in tropical-themed events and fruit displays due to its striking color and shape.

10. Comparison Chart

Variety Name	Flesh Color	Skin Color	Average Weight	Brix Rating	Pollination
American Beauty	Magenta/Purple	Red	0.5–1 pound	17–19	Self-fertile
Bien Hoa Red	Magenta/Purple	Greenish-Red	0.5–1 pound	18–19	Self-fertile
Purple Haze	Purple	Pink with Green Bracts	1–2 pounds	16–18	Self-sterile

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is American Beauty dragon fruit self-pollinating?
  Yes, it is self-fertile, making it easy to grow without requiring another variety for pollination.
• How does it compare to other red-fleshed dragon fruit varieties?
  American Beauty is sweeter than many red-fleshed varieties and is known for its consistent flavor and productivity.
• What’s the average time to harvest?
  The fruit ripens approximately 30–40 days after flowering, depending on environmental conditions.

12. Reviews/Testimonials

• User Reviews:
  • “American Beauty dragon fruit is a standout in my garden! The magenta flesh is beautiful, and its sweet, berry-like flavor is perfect for desserts and smoothies.”
  • “This variety produces consistently large yields, and I love how easy it is to grow thanks to its self-fertility.”
• Grower Testimonials:
  • “A great choice for beginners and experienced growers alike. It’s reliable, beautiful, and delicious!”