Organic Hachiya persimmons are orange in color like the Fuyu variety, but the similarity ends there. Unlike the flat-bottomed Fuyus, Hachiya persimmons are elongated in shape and taper towards the end, resembling Roma tomatoes. When ripe, their flesh is extraordinarily soft and luscious, almost like a jelly or custard.

Hachiya persimmons are shipped immediately after picking, while they are still firm - but they aren't ready to eat upon arrival. A Hachiya must sit on your kitchen counter or in your fruit bowl until it softens up considerably. The fruit is ripe and ready to eat when it appears to be very soft, almost over-ripe, and ready to burst. The flesh of the fruit should give under pressure when you press on it, appear a darker orange shade and feel heavy or dense. If the texture of Hachiya persimmons is not soft and jelly-like, the fruit will be astringent and is not ready to be consumed.

When ripe, the Hachiya can be cut open, and the flesh scooped out with a spoon. It's a decadent, natural jelly and can also be used to make pudding or mashed into cakes and other baked goods, adding a unique flavor and moistness in the process. Hachiyas also provide a source of vitamins A and C.