Pomegranate

Pomegranate, or Punica granata, is not indigenous to China. It was brought from Afghanistan and was mostly appreciated for its flowery branches in a multitude of single and double blossoms ranging from pale pink to deep red.

The flowers are used with iron for hair-dye, the root is boiled into a healing tonic, and the astringent dried peel is used for its medicinal value in rheumatism and dysentery.  “The pomegranate gleams with fiery light; the pear shines bright and pure, a frosty white.” This adage tells of the wish for many children. It is the symbol of fertility and the hope for many offspring and that offspring will behave in a manner honorable to the family.