A small deciduous tree, Punica granatum, belonging to the plant order Myrtales. Pomegranate is grown as an ornamental as well as for its fruit. Propagation is by cuttings and occasionally by layering. The pomegranate is a native of Asia, and was described by writers as early as 300 B.C. It was originally known for its medicinal qualities, and cures for various ills were attributed to the fruit juice, the rind, and the bark of the roots. The fruit is a reddish, pomelike berry, containing numerous seeds embedded in crimson pulp, from which an acid, reddish juice may be obtained. Limited quantities are grown in California and the Gulf states.