dragonfruit

Posted on August 22, 2013 by Jessica Dofflemyer · 4 Comments

Pollinators

Morning still allowed the Bohemian and I to admire the blossoms of the night blooming “Moonflower“, better known as Dragonfruit.

Such a rare occasion for me to witness this plant in action, my excitement has resulted in this third posting in the Archives, documenting the beauty of the “Queen of the Night”.

According to our garden friend, Mary, every one of its hair-like stamens need to be pollinated in order to bear fruit. Being that the flower opens at night and only stays in bloom for about 24 hours (at least in this case), there’s a lot of work to be done in a short time.

I don’t think I’ve ever been so close to a bee with so much pollen-laden legs.

Here’s hoping!

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Posted on August 21, 2013 by Jessica Dofflemyer · 6 Comments

Magic Dragon

Having no experience with Dragonfruit, except the rare occasion of eating one, the past few days have been filled with fascination as Jeb, the Bohemian, and I all watch this magic fruit unfurl.

Change occurs suddenly, in dramatic flourishes. Buds unfold, bloom huge, then move quickly to new stages.

Most intriguing has been the Dragonfruit’s propensity to flower in moonlight, which we’ve since learned, lends the name “Moonflower” or “Queen of the Night.” With the full moon illuminating petals, we watch in wonder at these delicate blossoms, knowing that they will eventually bear fruit, but almost disbelieving how.

It’s magic!

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