The pomegranate tree (Punica granatum), also denoted by the Hebrew word rim·mohnʹ, grows throughout the Middle East. It seldom passes 4.5 m (15 ft) in height. The spreading branches are numerous and have dark-green leaves that are shaped like the head of a lance and that produce blossoms with coral-red to scarlet flowers.​—PICTURE, Vol. 1, p. 742.

The pomegranate was extensively cultivated in Bible times, and the place-names of Rimmon, En-rimmon, and Gath-rimmon doubtless were derived from the abundance of these trees in their area. (Jos 15:32; 19:45; Ne 11:29) The pomegranate tree was much prized and thus is often associated with other important fruit producers such as the vine and the fig tree.​—Ca 7:12, 13; Joe 1:12; Hag 2:19.