Abstract
Anatomical analysis of the red-purple fruit of the Epiphyllum hybrid with red flowers in the course of its development was performed. Main attention was directed towards the special origin of the fruit pulp tissues by fusion of differentiated ovule funiculi cells. This interesting phenomenon in combination with accumulation of mucilage with a high water binding capacity in fruit pulp may prevent the premature dehydratation of fruits and prolong their exploitability. Thorough pigment analysis in the peel and fruit juice from Epiphyllum fruits and Epiphyllum flowers is reported for the first time. While the total betalain content of fruit was comparable with that of some Opuntia and Hylocereus clones, pigment pattern of Epiphyllum flowers may aid in differentiation of hybrids similar to previous reports on Opuntia and Hylocereus fruits. Overall, the results appear to be promising to extend investigations on Epiphyllum both from a botanical view but also with respect to their bioactive substances.
Published Version
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