The simple answer to whether dragon fruit is in the kiwi family is no; they are botanically unrelated. These two popular fruits belong to entirely separate plant orders and families, meaning their evolutionary paths diverged millions of years ago. Despite the common misconception, their similarities are purely superficial, rooted in visual appearance and texture, rather than any shared genetic heritage.
The Cactus Family Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit, scientifically known as Pitaya, is a member of the cactus family, Cactaceae, placing it within the order Caryophyllales. This classification contrasts it with most common fruits, as the plant is a terrestrial or epiphytic climbing cactus native to Central America and southern Mexico. The plant, often Hylocereus undatus, is a sprawling, vining species that uses aerial roots to cling to support. Its stems are fleshy, angular, and have spines, an adaptation to arid environments. The fruit develops from a large, fragrant flower that blooms for only a single night, a trait common among desert cacti.
The Vine Family Kiwi
Kiwi, or kiwifruit, belongs to the family Actinidiaceae and the order Ericales, a group that includes blueberries and tea plants. The most common commercial variety, Actinidia deliciosa, is a vigorous, woody perennial vine native to mainland China. This vine requires substantial support, often reaching lengths of up to 30 feet in cultivation. Unlike the desert-dwelling dragon fruit, kiwi vines thrive in temperate, subtropical climates and require a long, frost-free growing season.
Why the Confusion Exists
The confusion surrounding the two fruits results from several striking internal similarities. Both fruits feature a speckled interior, where numerous tiny, edible black seeds are dispersed throughout the flesh. This visual signature—a light-colored pulp dotted with black specks—creates a resemblance that leads consumers to mentally group them together. Furthermore, both fruits share a generally mild, slightly tart flavor profile and a soft, juicy texture. This combination of similar appearance and subtle taste is the primary reason people incorrectly assume a botanical relationship.
Nutritional Differences
A comparison of the nutritional content reveals significant differences. Kiwi is notably superior in Vitamin C, containing over 90 milligrams per 100-gram serving, roughly ten times the amount found in dragon fruit. Conversely, dragon fruit is highlighted for its low-calorie density and its iron content, a mineral less abundant in kiwi. Kiwi also contains a higher concentration of dietary fiber, offering about 3 grams per 100-gram serving, compared to the approximately 1 gram found in dragon fruit.