Interesting Fruits

Now that  grammar classes are done for the summer, I can get back to what matters most to me:  food!  I've had the wonderful opportunity to visit the Istrian countryside in June and couldn't help but be amazed at the bounty of fruits growing everywhere.  I took some pictures of things that might be pretty everyday for people who live in these parts, but are amazing for someone like me who comes from a much colder climate.

First up:  pomegranate.  This tree is about 4 or 5 years old and is covered in gorgeous saffron-colored blossoms:




A flower that has started morphing into pomegranate fruit:

 

 And one tiny perfectly formed pomegranate fruit that needs about 4 more months before it is ready to enjoy in October. 

 

Here's the one picture I have of a persimmon tree.  These fruits are about the size of a crab-apple right now, and will grow to the size of a grapefruit and turn bright red/orange in November/December.

Here's another interesting fruit:  the quince, a sort of cross between apple and pear.  This quince tree is about 12 years old and the fruits are hard and fuzzy right now.  They will grow quite large to the size of a very large potato, and they will remain quite hard, and will turn a golden yellow color.  Quince needs to be cooked and makes great compote.

 

Fruits amongst the lush leaves:

And a close-up of the fuzzy fruits:

 

I'm off to take pictures of the figs and olives right now.  However, if the early figs are ripe, I will put the camera away and help myself to some figgy goodness!