Pitaya in Santa Catarina: Harvest expected to exceed R$18 million in 2025

Dragon fruit production in Santa Catarina continues to expand, solidifying the state as one of the country's leading production hubs. By 2025, the harvest is expected to exceed 6,500 tons, resulting in a revenue of over R$16,000,000. This growth reflects not only the maturing orchards but also the fruit's continued popularity in the Brazilian market.

Furthermore, data from the Agricultural Research and Rural Extension Company of Santa Catarina (Epagri) indicate that the southern region of the state alone should account for R$15 million of this total. In other words, Santa Catarina's production maintains its relevance on the national scene, second only to São Paulo.

After the hype, the fruit remains popular in Brazilian daily life.

In recent years, dragon fruit has gained prominence on social media, in supermarkets, and at health food fairs, becoming one of the most talked-about fruits in Brazil. However, unlike many passing food trends, dragon fruit has established itself in the market and continues to be widely consumed.

This is for several reasons. First, the fruit won over the public not only for its exotic appearance, but also for its nutritional benefits and culinary versatility. Furthermore, the increased supply and expansion of cultivation areas in Brazil have helped keep prices affordable, making dragon fruit a more common staple in everyday diets.

Another important factor is the growing demand for healthy and functional foods. In other words, consumers are increasingly interested in foods rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Thus, dragon fruit is no longer just a fad and has become a permanent fixture in Brazilian diets.

Finally, constant demand drives production, ensuring that new varieties and consumption methods continue to emerge. Whether for breakfast, in juices, or even in sophisticated desserts, dragon fruit has proven it's here to stay and remains a beloved and valued fruit in the Brazilian market.

Why is pitaya production growing in Santa Catarina?

The growth of pitaya production in Santa Catarina is not an isolated phenomenon. In reality, this growth is due to a combination of factors driving production.

1. Encouraging agricultural diversification
The push to replace tobacco cultivation with fruit crops, such as dragon fruit, has created new opportunities for producers. As a result, many farms that were previously dedicated to tobacco farming are now focusing on fruit farming.

2. Ripening of the orchards
Dragon fruit begins to produce on a large scale from the third year of cultivation. As a result, plantations established in recent years are now reaching their peak production, contributing to increased supply.

3. Favorable weather conditions
The climate of Santa Catarina, especially in the south of the state, favors the development of the fruit. Thus, the region has become a benchmark for dragon fruit cultivation, relying on advanced agricultural management techniques.

Where are the main production centers in Santa Catarina?

Santa Catarina has 300 hectares planted, with 90% of this area concentrated in the south of the state. The municipalities with the highest production are:

• Santa Rosa do Sul
• Saint John of the South
• Dingy

This means that the region has become a true pitay-growing hub, bringing together producers who invest in new varieties and improve their management techniques.

How does pitaya cultivation work?

Dragon fruit production requires specific care to ensure quality and productivity. Therefore, farmers adopt different strategies to maximize results.

1. Night pollination

Dragon fruit pollination occurs primarily at night, when its flowers open. Some varieties rely on hand pollination, while others are self-fertile and do not require this process.

2. Sustainable soil management

To maintain soil fertility, many farmers use techniques such as planting forage peanuts. This method helps fix nitrogen, reduces the need for weeding, and minimizes the use of herbicides.

3. Fertilization and strategic pruning

Orchard productivity is directly linked to balanced fertilization and regular pruning. These practices ensure proper growth and healthier fruit.

Pitaya farms are also open to visitors.

In recent years, dragon fruit farms have become not only production centers but also tourist destinations. Much like wineries, many properties have begun offering tour experiences, allowing visitors to experience the fruit's cultivation up close, learn about the production process, and taste fresh dragon fruit picked directly from the tree.

Although rural tourism focused on dragon fruit is still on a smaller scale compared to wine tourism, this modality is growing in several producing regions of Brazil. For example, in southern Santa Catarina, some farms already offer guided tours, tastings, and even themed events during harvest season. Additionally, some producers hold workshops on growing and managing the fruit, attracting both tourists and small farmers interested in the crop.

Another attraction of dragon fruit farms is the opportunity to experience an authentic rural environment. Visitors can tour plantations, take photos among fruit-bearing cacti, and sample different varieties of the fruit. Therefore, these experiences have been an excellent alternative for those seeking local tourism, combining leisure and learning.

With the growing interest in the fruit and the growth of rural tourism, more properties are expected to open their doors to visitors. In other words, in addition to strengthening the production sector, this initiative contributes to the appreciation of dragon fruit farming in Brazil and brings consumers closer to the world of fruit growing.

Where does the pitaya produced in Santa Catarina go?

Most of the Santa Catarina harvest dragon fruit supplies the national market, with the following main destinations:

• Ceagesp, in São Paulo – The largest fruit marketing center in Brazil.
• Curitiba and Rio de Janeiro – Strategic markets for producers in the South of the country.

At the beginning of the 2024 harvest, the price per kilogram of dragon fruit reached R$ 7, but with the increase in supply, the price fell to R$ 3. Therefore, in 2025, prices are expected to remain more stable, ensuring greater financial predictability for farmers.

What are the prospects for the future of pitaya in Santa Catarina?

The growth in dragon fruit production in Santa Catarina indicates a promising future for fruit farming in the state. In addition to strengthening the local economy, the fruit is gaining increasing market share in the national market.

Furthermore, the increased demand for healthy and exotic foods could boost dragon fruit's expansion into new markets. As a result, producers are already considering exporting it in the coming years.

Finally, with improved agricultural techniques, government incentives, and a growing market, Santa Catarina reaffirms its leading position in dragon fruit production in Brazil. The future of dragon fruit in the state promises to be as vibrant as its exotic color and unmistakable flavor.

What are the benefits of eating pitaya?

Dragon fruit consumption has been gaining popularity not only for its exotic flavor and vibrant appearance, but also for its numerous health benefits. Due to its rich fiber, vitamin, and antioxidant composition, the fruit supports various bodily functions.

Among the main benefits of pitaya, the following stand out:

• Strengthening the immune system – Rich in vitamin C, dragon fruit helps protect the body against infections and inflammation.
• Bowel regulation – Thanks to its high fiber content, the fruit improves intestinal function, preventing constipation and promoting digestive health.
• Antioxidant action – Its antioxidant compounds fight free radicals, slowing cellular aging and preventing chronic diseases.
• Helps control blood sugar – Studies suggest that dragon fruit can help regulate glucose levels, making it a great ally for people with diabetes.
• Hydration and skin health – Because it contains a large amount of water and essential nutrients, the fruit helps hydrate the skin, improving its appearance and elasticity.

Furthermore, dragon fruit is a low-calorie option, making it ideal for those seeking a balanced and nutritious diet.

What vitamins and nutrients are found in dragon fruit?

Dragon fruit is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals essential for the proper functioning of the body. Regular consumption can provide several nutritional benefits. The fruit's main components include:

• Vitamin C – Strengthens the immune system and has antioxidant action.
• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) – Essential for energy metabolism and nervous system health.
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) – Contributes to energy production and cellular repair.
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – Aids digestion and cardiovascular health.
• Dietary fiber – They regulate intestinal transit and promote satiety.
• Iron – Important for the formation of red blood cells and prevention of anemia.
• Magnesium – Essential for muscle, bone and nerve health.
• Calcium – Contributes to the strengthening of bones and teeth.

In other words, besides being delicious, the fruit offers a complete package of essential nutrients for a healthy life.

What are the best ways to consume dragon fruit?

Dragon fruit's versatility allows it to be consumed in a variety of ways, both fresh and in creative recipes. Besides being refreshing and slightly sweet, the fruit pairs well with a variety of ingredients, making it an excellent option for varying your menu.

Here are some ideas for including dragon fruit in your daily diet:

• In natura – Simple and practical, just cut the fruit in half and eat the pulp with a spoon.
• Smoothies and juices – Mixing dragon fruit with other fruits, such as banana, strawberry and mango, results in refreshing and nutritious drinks.
• Fruit salads – Dragon fruit goes very well with kiwi, orange and coconut, bringing color and flavor to salads.
• Yogurts and bowls – A great option is to add pieces of dragon fruit to natural yogurt, accompanied by granola and seeds.
• Healthy desserts – The fruit can be used in mousses, ice creams and natural gelatins.
• Flavored teas and waters – Pieces of dragon fruit added to iced teas or flavored water make the drinks even more sophisticated.
• Savory recipes – In exotic dishes, dragon fruit can be used in salad dressings and as a side dish for seafood.

Therefore, whether for breakfast, a snack, or even in more elaborate dishes, dragon fruit adapts to different preferences and eating styles, ensuring flavor and nutritional benefits.