Reproduction

As a flowering plant, H. undatus is able to reproduce through pollination. H. undatus is a night blooming cactus; therefore nocturnal visitors (in this case bats) usually perform the transfer of pollen. The flower of H. undatus is thought to be one of the largest seen in the cactus family, producing large white petals and a fragrant smell. The large white colored petals help attract bats. The flower also remains open through early morning attracting some diurnal visitors, mainly bees. It has been found that nocturnal visitors produce a higher number of fruit production in H. undatus than diurnal pollinators do. In most cases, some kind of cross- pollination has been required to produce fruit, although in one study done in Mexico, successful self-pollination of H. undatus was seen (Valiente-Banuet et al., 2006). If self-pollination capabilities are possible, it would be an advantage for H. undatus as a fruit crop.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Learn more about Hylocereus undatus as a food organism.

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