Cydonia oblonga

Frequently spotted in Renaissance still life paintings, the quince looks like a cross between an apple and a pear, to which it's related.

The pome fruits are golden-green when ripe and have a fabled aroma that is sweet and citrusy. When raw, the fruits have an astringent flavour, but when cooked or bletted (allowed to over-ripen) the flavour becomes sweeter and deeper. Use them to make jellies, jams, pies, tarts and membrillo – a Spanish quince paste usually eaten with hard cheese.

For best results, grow quinces in full sun in moist, well-drained soil.