"Golden Apples of the Hesperides" Hercules, in order to become immortal, he had to perform several labors for the King of Mycenae (Eurystheus). After accomplishing ten unbelievable tasks, the eleventh was to secure the Golden Apple of the Hesperides. The Hesperides were the four virgin daughters of Atlas. They were charged with the responsibility of protecting the Golden Apples from plunder. They were aided in their effort by Ladon, a hundred-headed dragon. Hercules prevailed upon Atlas for help and was successful in obtaining the Golden Apples. The fruit of the orange is today referred to as a hesperidium.