Overview
Selenicereus megalanthus ×, cv. Purple Megalanthus
Other names: Strawberry Megalanthus
Pollination: self-sterile
I have read that this variety was developed in Australia, though I have a sneaking suspicion that it is merely a Desert King seedling grown in Australia. Regardless of its origin, this variety is absolutely delicious, perhaps the best I have ever eaten! The branches are typical of varieties with a megalanthus heritage, though thicker and more vigorous than Yellow Colombiana. It is a fast grower and has outcompeted the two Palora plants it is growing with in the same trellis. Sun tolerance is also above average which might be due to its Australian selection. There seems to be a lack of consensus surrounding the sterility of this variety, and I look forward to testing this for myself when I get more flowers, though for now I will assume it is self-sterile.
Buds
Like most of the megalanthus varieties, Purple Megalanthus buds late in the season, around the start of autumn. Buds are similar to Yellow Colombiana, though the outer sepals (technically tepals) pull back more, hinting at a possible setaceus heritage. The tepals are outlined in a vintage red and are stunning in themselves. The time from bud to flower is surprisingly standard given the mild conditions and relation to slower varieties.
Flowers
Much like its buds, the flowers of Purple Megalanthus are reminiscent of Yellow Colombiana with their bowl shape, though less pronounced. Basically, a mix between megalanthus and (possibly) setaceus traits. The stigma is not far from the anthers, indicating that there may be some self-fertility. The flowers close up quickly the next morning despite the cooler temperatures.
Fruit
I have only had one fruit so far, but boy was it a ripper! After waiting around half a year for it to slowly ripen over the winter, I decided that the colour was not going to get any more intense and picked the precious egg. There were a few spines near the base of the fruit, though they brushed off easily. One bite and I knew I had nailed the timing. Sweet like candy, but with Sugar Dragon vibes and complexity of flavour. This variety takes the best parts of its parents, whomever they may be.
