I went fruit hunting in Zacatecas during peak pitaya season. Here are pictures of the surrounding areas of southern Zacatecas (Jalpa, Juchipila, Santa Rosa, and the pitayas from the surrounding areas).
The growing area is mainly a zone 9B to 10A, light frosts can occur in the area (I believe these are strains of Stenocereus queretaroensis). I am told that the Zacatecas pitayas are tastier fruit strains then the surrounding states (I can't vouch on that statement, can be based on pride in the region).
The fruit is mainly sweet with a texture similar to a premium perfectly ripe dark fig. The flavor surpasses dragon fruit in sweetness and flavor. Certain selections can have a slightly acidic component to them. The color flesh range is Yellow, Orange, Red, Purple, White, and Lavender (rarer strain type). The size varies depending on growing conditions and strain, the premium cultivated selections can get as big as a duck eggs with most averaging sizes around medium to large chicken eggs.
Climate is semi arid tropical and subtropical. Season starts in May last till June. Excessive rain can sour the crop and cause crop failure from what the locals have said. Prime locations would be zone +9A Southern California, Southern Arizona, Las Vegas, NV, Southern zone +9A Texas. The cacti may work as well in parts in Florida if its in a well drained full sun area, if the dry season last until late May. There is also the possibility of exploring different seedling variations that may fruit earlier or resist excess moisture issues related to fruit quality.




