Pitaya
Stenocereus fricii

Family: Cactaceae

What it is like

A shrubby or tree like cactus. It has many branches. It grows 4-7 m high. The stems arise near the base. They are light green or greyish and 2-7 m long. They are 8-12 cm across. There are 4-6 ribs that are wide and wavy. There are 7-12 central spines and they are 2-5 cm long. There are 12-14 spines around it. The flowers are open during the day. They are funnel or bell shaped and 10-12 cm long. They are white with cream or red tints. The fruit are round and red or yellow. They are 5 cm across.

There are 23 Stenocereus species. They are tree like cacti from America.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. They need warmth.

Countries/locations it is found in

Central America, Mexico, North America

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Pitayo de aguas

Synonyms

Rathbunia fricii (Sanchez-Mejorada) P.V. Heath;