Yellow River Pitaya

Yellow River Pitaya

　　Huangjiang Village in Huashi Town, Fangcheng District, is located in the southwest of Fangcheng District. The entire village primarily cultivates pitaya, making it one of the largest pitaya-growing bases in China. In 2011, it was officially named “Guangxi Pitaya Village” by the People’s Government of the Autonomous Region. The area enjoys a subtropical marine monsoon climate, featuring mild weather, abundant sunlight, ample rainfall, no frost throughout the year, and rich natural resources ideal for the development of subtropical fruit cultivation.

　　Pitaya, also known as “red dragon fruit,” originates from Central American regions such as Mexico. It is an emerging eco-friendly green fruit in recent years and belongs to the tropical plant family. Pitaya thrives in sunlight but tolerates shade, heat, and drought, while also being adaptable to both fertile and poor soils. Its flowers are large, smooth, and radiant, with corolla diameters ranging from 40 to 50 centimeters. The fruit has a waxy, smooth, red outer skin, weighs between 500 to 700 grams per piece, and has a sweetness level of 13 to 14 degrees, offering a superior taste. Plants can flower and bear fruit within just one year of planting, and yields can exceed 1,000 kilograms per mu after three years, reaching up to 4,000 kilograms at maximum. The flowering period lasts from April to November, and it takes 30 to 50 days from blooming to ripening. Throughout the orchard, flowers, small fruits, green fruits, and ripe fruits coexist, with no distinct peak harvest season. Once harvested, the fruit can be stored at room temperature for 2 to 3 weeks, or refrigerated for over a month. The peel is protected by a layer of wax, making it less susceptible to pests and diseases. The fruit boasts vibrant colors and delicious, crisp, sweet flesh. It is believed to help cleanse the blood, reduce internal heat, lower blood pressure, treat diabetes, detoxify the liver, nourish the stomach, support lung health, and enhance beauty. Endorsed by contemporary agricultural experts and recommended by food connoisseurs, it combines the qualities of fruit, flower, vegetable, health food, and medicine. Among the many fruit varieties, it stands out as a precious and exquisite delicacy, truly a priceless treasure.