Pomegranate:
healing drops of blood

The pomegranate, a treasured fruit with ornamental and medicinal value, has a rich history. Native to regions from Iran to the Himalayas, it spread across the Mediterranean in ancient times. Theophrastus described it over 300 years before Christ. Legends abound, including its association with the Garden of Eden's "tree of life," symbolizing hope and eternal life in Christian art. The fruit's many seeds became a symbol of fertility. Its erect calyx-lobes inspired Solomon's crown. Egyptians cultivated it, and dried fruits were found in Bronze Age tombs. Moses reassured the Israelites of finding pomegranates in the Promised Land. Its allure and medicinal properties inspired myths, epics, and artworks, transcending time and cultures. Some scholars even suggest it was the fruit in the Garden of Eden, not an apple...

The gemstone garnet, named after the fruit due to its resemblance to pomegranate "pits," carries significance in Slavic languages as "Granat." Believed to bring luck in love and friendship, this precious stone holds an association with the pomegranate's symbolic value.

Pomegranates have been consumed by man since before recorded history. From ancient times, the fruit was valued for its medicinal properties. Consuming the fruit will help to improve blood quality. The tiny beads of fruit, full of precious oil and juice, are brilliant as drops of blood or rubies. These "drops of blood" from the pomegranate when consumed will help to build healthy red blood cells, according to the ancients who wrote the "Law of Similars". According to Ayurveda obese persons should consume the pomegranate fruit as it will improve metabolism and assist in the weight loosening. There is a saying in Hindi - "Ek anaar sau bemaar" - meaning one pomegranate can serve one hundred sick people.

Pomegranate tree is easy to grow in your garden. Many varieties exist, and every one has its special features...

NEW VIDEO:
ABC7 Fort Myers News:
Butterfly plants at Top Tropicals

Butterfly plants... what can be more romantic and sweet in your garden!
Watch the news segment by Rachel Anderson for ABC-7: Butterfly plants at Top Tropicals.

"...Spring has sprung, and if you're looking to spruce up your garden, Top Tropicals in Fort Myers has you covered! They have hundreds of exotic plants, fruit trees, fragrant flowers and plants that will attract butterflies to your garden!
If you're looking for a Mother's Day gift, plants are gifts that keep on giving!.."

In the photo: Butterfly plants display in Top Tropicals office. Come and see our large selection of butterfly attractors in the nursery!

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In the photo: Lonicera japonica - Japanese Honeysuckle - a garden favorite, hardy, fast growing vine. Jasmine-sweet scented flowers attract butterflies, and hummingbirds, and berries attract birds!

Five reasons to give your mother a live plant

In the photo: Hoya kerrii - Wax Hearts, Sweetheart Hoya, Heart leaf - makes an ideal houseplant. It has become increasingly popular in recent years because of its unusual "heart" shape leaves...

In the photo: Panama Queen - a very rare, much wanted tropical plant with extremely tropical look, fragrant flowers of unusual color combination: orange and pink

The Benefits of Companion Planting

Elderberry Kir Royale

Grow your own... drink and medicine

In the summertime, Elderberry bushes transform into small, bushy trees adorned with sizable umbels of white flowers. As late summer approaches, the tree produces an abundance of dark purple berry clusters. Elderberry is known for its ability to withstand cold weather and can thrive in a variety of soils in either full or partial sun. While it typically grows to a height of 10 feet, its spreading can be managed through pruning.

This dense shrub is beloved by nesting birds, who are not the only creatures that appreciate its fruit. People also prize Elderberry for its delicious uses in winemaking, cocktails, and jellies. Elderberry syrup or cordial can be used to create flavorful fruity drinks and cocktails, like the Elderberry Kir Royale. Alternatively, the berries can be left to infuse their flavor into spirits, with Elderberry gin being a particularly delightful option.

Elderberry Cordial

When it comes to combating various strains of the flu virus, Elderberry Cordial ranks among the top natural remedies. Whether sipped in small servings or drizzled over a delectable dessert, Elderberry Cordial is a guilt-free way to fortify your immune system against colds and flus.

2 cups of fresh elderberries
16 oz water

1. 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 lemon (rind + juice)
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger

1. stick cinnamon, crushed
   1 ¼ cups dried elderberries

1/4 cup dried rosehips
About 3 cups brandy
Honey, to taste

Add all ingredients in a jar and cover with a lid. Set aside in a cool, dark place for 3-4 weeks. When ready to decant, strain and squeeze through cheesecloth. For every 1 cup of liquid retained, add 1/2 cup honey. Mix thoroughly. Pour the cordial into a decorative bottle for storage, or gift giving.

Elderberry Kir Royale Cocktail

5 oz white wine, sparkling wine or champagne
2 oz Elderberry cordial
Rocks
Mint leaves (optional)
Pour the Champagne in a flute glass. Add the Elderberry Cordial slowly.
Party time!