Observing the Stem Length: The Shorter, the Sweeter

An interesting tip is to look at the length of the stem to estimate the thickness of the skin. Dragon fruits with short stems usually have thinner skin, which means more flesh inside, making them sweeter and more delicious. On the other hand, fruits with long stems often have thicker skin, less flesh, and are less tasty—definitely not worth the money.

Additionally, a fresh dragon fruit should have a bright green, firm stem that isn’t wilted or turning yellow. If the stem is starting to dry out or turn yellow, it means the fruit has been stored for a long time and is no longer fresh.

Dragon Fruit: Short Stem or Long Stem?
The correct answer is: the sweetness of dragon fruit doesn’t depend on the length of the fruit or stem, but on its ripeness, freshness, and external quality.

Here are specific criteria to choose the best dragon fruit, regardless of its length:

• Choose fruits with bright red skin (or deep pink for purple-fleshed varieties). The skin should be taut and free of wrinkles or blemishes. Long fruits usually have thinner skin, making it easier to check ripeness, while shorter fruits may have slightly thicker skin.

• Feel the weight. A good dragon fruit feels heavy in your hand, indicating firm and juicy flesh inside.

• Press gently on the skin. If it’s slightly soft but still elastic, the fruit is ripe. Fruits that are too hard are likely underripe, while overly soft ones may be overripe.

• Smell the fruit. Naturally ripe dragon fruit has a light, pleasant fragrance. If it has no smell or a sour odor, it may have been stored too long or is not fully ripe.
  
  
  

White-Fleshed or Red-Fleshed Dragon Fruit?
The two most common types today are white-fleshed and red-fleshed dragon fruits. White-fleshed dragon fruit is traditional, easy to grow, and cheaper. It has a light, mildly sweet taste and is very juicy. It’s often seen in fruit platters or offerings because of its attractive pink-green skin. However, if stored too long, it can lose flavor and crispness.

Red-fleshed dragon fruit is more visually striking and nutritionally richer, especially high in antioxidants thanks to betalain pigments. It has a stronger sweetness, softer, and more chewy texture compared to white-fleshed varieties. However, it is usually 1.5 to 2 times more expensive and can stain easily when cut.

Nutritionally, red-fleshed dragon fruit has an advantage due to higher vitamin C, antioxidants, and anthocyanins, which are good for heart health and skin. But if you just want an affordable, refreshing fruit, white-fleshed dragon fruit is still a reasonable choice.

How to Store Dragon Fruit

• If not eaten immediately, keep it in a cool, ventilated place, away from direct sunlight.

• For ripe fruits, refrigerate in the fridge to preserve crispness and sweetness for 2–3 more days.

• Wrap the fruit in a paper bag or breathable plastic bag to prevent rapid water loss.

Conclusion
No type of dragon fruit is absolutely better than the other; it depends on your taste and intended use. Short fruits tend to be sweeter, long fruits have more flesh; white-fleshed is refreshing, red-fleshed is sweeter, chewier, and more nutritious. By knowing these selection tips at the market, you can easily pick dragon fruits that are both delicious and just right for your meal, making it more complete and nutritious.