A cross between the Golden Delicious and Indo apple, green dragon apples share the same DNA as the Mutsu apple. The name green dragon is a reference to the Chinese symbol for royalty.

The green dragon apple in appearance resembles a lime green Golden Delicious dotted with near-microscopic brown freckles. Its inside reveals a white, crisp-textured flesh. It is a sweet, low acid apple that has a plentitude of fruit esters in its aroma, making it one of most aromatic apples on the market. Its flavor imparts layers of tropical undertones such as pineapple along with even sweeter flavors reminiscent of pears.

Serving Ideas

The complex sweetness of the green dragon apple shines in both cooked and raw preparations. Serve fresh in chopped and fruit salads. Add grated or roughly chopped green dragon apple to batter for pancakes, muffins and fritters. Similar to their parent the Golden Delicious, sliced green dragon apple makes an excellent filling for pies and tarts. Its flavor pairs well with cranberry, pear, strawberry, manchego cheese and cinnamon.

Geography/History

The green dragon apple was developed in 1920 at the Aomori Research Institute in Japan. Grown in the pacific northwest originally it was harvested almost exclusively for export to Japan, today it can be found during harvest season at select farmers markets and from purveyors of specialty produce.

Seasons/Availability

Green dragon apples are available in the fall.