Apple (Malus) Egremont Russet — Bush, 12L Container, MM106

The best-known and best-loved of all English russets, Egremont Russet has been a garden favourite since Victorian times, first recorded in 1872. Its flattish, golden-ochre fruits are covered in a rough, bronze russet and hide firm, creamy flesh with a rich, sweet and distinctly nutty flavour. Picked in early October, the apples keep until December, developing further in store, and make a classic partner for a strong cheese. Holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit, it's a reliable cropper with good resistance to scab.

Grown as a bush on semi-vigorous MM106 rootstock, it makes a productive garden tree of around 3m, with a short trunk that keeps picking and pruning within easy reach. Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot in well-drained soil and stake firmly for the first few years. Partially self-fertile and in pollination group B, it will crop on its own but gives heavier yields with a partner from groups A, B or C nearby.

Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.

Available from Pengelly Garden Centre.