The pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a small shrub or tree (max. 10 m tall), belonging to the botanical family Lythraceae, genus Punica, order Myrtales. It is a species native to south-eastern Europe and Asia, currently cultivated for its fruit in most regions with mild climates. It has simple, deciduous (in some regions the leaves are semi-evergreen), glossy, thick, elongated, lanceolate leaves. The flowers are terminal, solitary or in groups of two or three, red. The fruit (pomegranate) is similar to the apple in shape and appearance, up to 12-13 cm in diameter. The skin is hard, at first green, then red, and inside there are numerous small false fruits with red, pink or partially transparent flesh. Each false fruit has a single stone.