Ohana Express is a rare hybrid sort bred from Hylocereus polyrhizus and Selenicereus megalanthus. Ohana dragon fruit variety came from the Desert King variety’s seeds.
Description
This variety of dragon fruit is known for its exceptional taste and is considered one of the best-tasting varieties of dragon fruit available. It has purple/magenta flesh with a brix score of 17-20% and is described as very sweet with some tartness and a combination of tropical and berry flavors.
Like many Selenicereus species, this one blooms at night and has smelly flowers. The first flowers appeared 10 months after the cuttings were planted, making Ohana Express the cutting that took the shortest time to bloom. It took 21 days for a flower to bloom from a bud.
When the flowers are fully open, they are about the same size as the Yellow pitaya variety. The front petals are white and yellow, and the back petals are yellow and a deep red.
| Type: | Succulent epiphytic vining, terrestrial cactus |
| Foliage season: | evergreen |
| USDA hardiness zone (°F): | 8 (10 to 20 °F), 9 (20 to 30 °F), 10 (30 to 40 °F) |
| Sunlight: | Full Sun |
| Weight: | ~ 250 grams |
| Water needs: | Medium, even moisture - regular |
| Soil type: | Peat, sand |
| Soil pH: | Neutral |
| Size: | Height: 6'-20', width: 6'-20' |
| Flavor: | 5 out of 5 |
| Fruit production: | 5 out of 5 |
| Appearance: | 5 out of 5 |
| Home planting: | 5 out of 5 |
| Commercial planting: | 5 out of 5 |
The outside is red and has tiny fins with green tips. The bottom of the fruit has thorns. This, however, is easy to brush off before picking. From flower to harvest, it took 60 days.
One of the unique characteristics of Ohana Express pitahaya is that it is a self-pollinating variety, which means that it does not require the assistance of bees or other pollinators to produce fruit. This makes it an ideal choice for home gardeners and small-scale farmers who may not have access to pollinators or who want to minimize the use of pesticides and other chemicals.
Another advantage of Ohana Express dragon fruit is that it is relatively easy to grow. The plant requires well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, but is otherwise quite hardy and can withstand a range of temperatures and growing conditions. The fruit is typically harvested between June and November, depending on the growing region and climate.
To get the best flavor, pick the fruit between one and three days after it starts to turn red. Leave it on the vine for 10 to 12 days after it turns red to make it sweeter and less sour.
Also, this dragonfruit variety is also known for its nutritional value. The fruit is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. It also contains a range of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Conclusion
Overall, Ohana Express dragon fruit is an exciting and unique variety that offers a range of benefits to growers and consumers alike. With its striking color, sweet taste, and nutritional value, it is no wonder that this fruit is quickly becoming a favorite among those who appreciate the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
