Delight

Description

The Delight dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus × Hylocereus guatemalensis) is a hybrid variety celebrated for its unique pink flesh and delightful flavor. Developed by renowned horticulturist Paul Thomson, this cultivar is a cross between the ‘Niezel’ (white-fleshed) and ‘Rixford’ (purple-fleshed) varieties.

1. Basic Overview

• Variety Name: Delight Dragon Fruit
• Species: Hylocereus undatus × Hylocereus guatemalensis
• Origin: Delight is a hybrid developed by renowned horticulturist Paul Thomson. It combines the traits of ‘Niezel’ (white-fleshed) and ‘Rixford’ (purple-fleshed) varieties.
• Significance: Known for its beautiful pink flesh, smooth texture, and sweet, ice-cream-like flavor, Delight is a favorite among dragon fruit enthusiasts for its taste and ease of growth.

2. Visual Appeal

• Whole Fruit: The fruit boasts vibrant magenta skin adorned with green scales, creating a stunning visual contrast.
• Cross-Section: Slicing the fruit reveals light pink flesh dotted with small black seeds, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
• Flowers and Plant: The plant produces enormous, nocturnal blooms over 14 inches in diameter, featuring white petals and yellow accents. These flowers bloom all summer, adding ornamental value.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Skin Color and Texture: The skin is magenta with bright green scales, firm to the touch, and durable enough to protect the tender flesh.
• Flesh Color: Light pink with a smooth texture.
• Fruit Size and Shape: Medium-sized fruits, typically weighing around 1 pound (450 grams), are oval-shaped with a uniform appearance.
• Seed Distribution: Evenly distributed small black seeds add a subtle crunch.

4. Taste Profile

• Flavor Description: Delight dragon fruit is known for its smooth, sweet flavor often compared to ice cream. Its mild sweetness and low acidity make it a favorite for fresh eating.
• Sweetness Level: Brix scores range between 17 and 19, indicating a pleasingly sweet flavor profile.

5. Growing Characteristics

• Climate Requirements: Thrives in tropical to subtropical climates, with warm temperatures and adequate humidity. Sensitive to frost and prolonged cold exposure.
• Plant Type: A vigorous climbing cactus with fleshy, three-sided green stems and small spines.
• Flowering Habits: Produces large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers throughout the summer.
• Pollination: Delight is self-pollinating, meaning it does not require cross-pollination to produce fruit.

6. Cultivation Tips

• Soil Requirements: Requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter. A mixture of sandy loam and compost works best.
• Sunlight and Temperature Needs: Prefers full to partial sun exposure. Protect from frost and extreme heat for optimal growth.
• Watering Needs: Moderate watering is essential; allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
• Support Structures: Provide trellises or stakes to support the climbing habit and encourage proper growth.

7. Harvesting and Productivity

• Harvest Time: Fruits typically ripen 30 to 45 days after flowering, depending on growing conditions.
• Yield per Plant: Under optimal conditions, a mature plant can produce multiple fruits per season, with up to four fruiting cycles annually.
• Ripening Indicators: The skin turns vibrant magenta, and the fruit gives slightly under gentle pressure when ripe.

8. Uses and Applications

• Culinary Uses: Ideal for fresh consumption, smoothies, fruit salads, desserts, and as a garnish. Its mild sweetness pairs well with various dishes.
• Nutritional Benefits: Rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, dietary fiber, and essential minerals, promoting overall health.
• Ornamental Uses: The large, showy flowers and vibrant fruit make Delight an excellent choice for decorative gardens.

9. Fun Facts

• Development History: Delight is one of the standout hybrids developed by Paul Thomson, a pioneer in dragon fruit cultivation.
• Ice Cream Comparison: The smooth texture and sweet flavor often draw comparisons to ice cream, making it a unique variety among dragon fruits.

10. Comparison Chart

Variety Name	Flesh Color	Skin Color	Average Weight	Brix Rating	Pollination
Delight	Light Pink	Magenta with green fins	~1 lb	17–19	Self-pollinating
Sugar Dragon	Dark Magenta	Red with green fins	0.5–1 lb	18–20	Self-sterile
American Beauty	Magenta	Pink-red with green fins	0.75–1.5 lbs	18	Self-pollinating

11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is Delight dragon fruit self-pollinating?
  Yes, Delight is self-pollinating and does not require cross-pollination to set fruit.
• How does Delight compare to other pink-fleshed varieties?
  Delight is unique for its mild sweetness, smooth texture, and ice cream-like flavor, making it a top choice among pink-fleshed varieties.
• What is the best way to determine when Delight is ripe?
  Monitor the skin color; it should turn vibrant magenta. The fruit should also yield slightly under gentle pressure when ready for harvest.

12. Reviews/Testimonials

• User Reviews:
  • “Delight lives up to its name! The flavor is smooth and sweet, and the texture is perfect for fresh eating.”
  • “This variety is a consistent producer in my garden. The flowers are stunning, and the fruits are always a hit at family gatherings.”
• Grower Testimonials:
  • “A reliable and vigorous grower, Delight is one of my favorite hybrids to cultivate. Its self-pollinating nature and marketable fruit make it a standout.”