PLATE L. 
Some etymologists, Dr. Johnson among the number, consider this name to be derived from 
“ Coster,” a head, 
“ Take him over the costard with the hilt of thy sword.” 
Shakespeare : Richard III, I., 4. 
but what connexion there is between either the shape or appearance of this particular apple 
and a head, more than such as may belong to any other variety, must puzzle any one to discover. 
It is much more probable that the derivation of the name is from the old English word “Cost,” a 
rib or side, on account of the prominent ribs or angles presented on the sides of the fruit. 
“ Betwixt the costs of a ship ” 
says Johnson in his “ Staple of News,” and similar instances of its use might be given. 
1. GLOUCESTERSHIRE COSTARD. 
This variety is still much esteemed in some parts of Gloucestershire, and it is always 
represented at the apple shows at Gloucester. 
Description .—Fruit : very large, conical, or pearmain shaped, being broad at the base and 
with a waist towards the apex, and larger on one side of the axis than on the other ; it is prominently 
ribbed, undulating in its outline, and terminates with prominent ridges round the eye. Skin : a fine 
deep yellow on the shaded side, and bright red on the side exposed to the sun, where it is streaked 
with red and orange. Eye : small, set in a deep narrow basin, with divergent and rather erect 
segments. Stalk : about half an inch long, stout, inserted in a very deep and prominently ribbed 
cavity, sometimes with a prominent lip on one side of it, which gives it an oblique direction. Flesh : 
white, very tender, with a mild subacid flavour. 
A very handsome apple ; excellent for all culinary purposes. In season during the Autumn, 
in October and November. 
2. HEREFORDSHIRE COSTARD. 
This variety is now only to be found in a few farm-house gardens in Herefordshire. The 
trees are old and rugged in appearance, but they bear well in favourable seasons, and are valued 
for their culinary merits, and perhaps also for old associations. 
Description. —Fruit: large, somewhat oblong in shape, prominently ribbed on the sides. 
Skin : almost entirely covered with crimson streaks where exposed to the sun, and mottled with the 
