TWO Rosemaries added sweetness to our trip away to the land of the cider apple.

Traditionally, apples that are pressed for cider in the West Country are not fine eaters, with names such as Brown Snout, Sheep’s Nose and Merry Legs, but in Bridport, on our return from further out west, there was a community orchard with a tasty surprise.

Among the varieties in this orchard, tucked away behind the marvellous Soulshine eco-cafe, was a fantastic tree dripping with an apple I have not previously encountered — the Rosemary Russet.

And, in a planter in Brewery Square in nearby Dorchester, close to the sadly defunct Edridge Pope brewery, was another Rosemary which is becoming increasingly popular.

But, back to the orchard, which is celebrating its tenth birthday, and the Rosemary Russet.

This was probably the best apple I have ever tasted and one which will certainly find its way to my little orchard during planting season.

Not a commercial variety, Rosemary Russet is stocked only by specialist nurseries and is not widely available.

It is so juicy with a true connoisseur taste that is both sweet and sharp, with some saying it is reminiscent of acid drops.

It is a vigorous grower, good cropper and disease resistant and was first listed in the late 19th century.

My second Rosemary is both edible, decorative — and bulletproof.

It is one of the best ground-cover plants and will survive almost total neglect in an arid region of the garden or planter.

Rosmarinus officinalis prostratus grows to only about 12 inches tall and spreads or trails vigorously.

It has attractive, fragrant foliage and is peppered with small flowers from early in the year to late spring.

It also tastes great with succulent West Country, or Island, lamb.