DRAGONS GROWING WILD & being Pollinated by Bats - Right here In Belize

DRAGONS GROWING IN THE WILD
Dragon fruit is among the most nutritious and exotic fruits found in Belize.  Stop by and try one, at my fruit stand here in Belize.  They are typically, not something you will find back home, as they can grow only in tropical climates, such as Central America.

This is a fruit, that I often get to experience with the guest of Belize - for the first time.  Some really like it, and others say it has no flavor.  You be the judge.

Typically, the fruit has red pulp, or red flesh if you like. The fruit originates from the dragon fruit cactus plant, which usually grows like a vine. Unlike day pollination done by bees, it is surprising to note - that this fruit blooms at night, where pollination is caused by nocturnal living things such as bats and moths. 

Despite the fact that people avert and dislike bats, they play a very important role in the pollination and formation of this fruit.  This is because the dragon fruit cactus plant, only blooms successfully after a complete pollination by bats or moths.

The dragon fruit is native fruit to Central America. It dates back to the 13th century, according to Aztec literature and history.
Colombia and Nicaragua (other South American countries) also grow dragon fruits for commercial purposes.

The dragon fruit needs a temperate rainfall of around 600-1300mm and a maximum temperature of 38-40 degrees Celsius. Too much rainfall leads to the flower dropping and the fruit rotting. 

Red dragon fruit featuring (1) red skin-red flesh, (2) yellow skin-white flesh, and (3) red skin-white flesh, are the three most common varieties cultivated for commercial purposes.

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