Paradise

The fruit on our pomegranate tree is ripening nicely.

Fun facts:
- The pomegranate (Punica granatum) belongs to the Lythraceae family of loosestrifes. 
- The tree or shrub grows up to 5 m tall, can live for up to 200 years.
- The fruit, flowers, bark, roots and leaves of pomegranates contain chemicals, such as polyphenols, that can be used to treat a number of diseases and conditions.
- Pomegranates contain antioxidants, large quantities of flavonoids and phenolic acids with important functions for cell regulation. 
- Pomegranates contain potassium, vitamin A, C, E, calcium and iron.
- Pomegranate peel and juice have been used to dye Oriental carpets for centuries.
- In Greek mythology, the pomegranate was known as the ‘fruit of the dead’ as it was said to have arisen from the blood of Adonis. It also prominently featured in the myth of Hades and Persephone. It had a strong association to Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, as well as Hera, the Greek goddess of marriage and childbirth.
- In the Q’uran, pomegranates grow in the Garden of Paradise and are referred to on multiple occasions as God’s good creations.
- The pomegranate is also said to be found in the Garden of Eden according to Ancient Iranian Christianity and was believed to be the real forbidden fruit rather than the apple.
 
In other news, a very quiet, hot day at home and poolside that concluded with dinner (salad and barbecue) in the communal garden with neighbour friends. 
 
Another day in paradise.

sources: https://www.alimentarium.org and kew.org