These small, red apples are nothing more than paradise apples, which can thrive on the tree until late winter, delighting our eyes with their luscious color in their white blooms.

Apples are an important food source for birds wintering in Europe. Although they aren't tasty, as they are tart and sour, they are sometimes used in home canning, making liqueurs, jams, and jellies.

I took the photos at two different times: in September, when the tree was still abundant in leaves, and in early November, when only the fruit remained.

Where does the name paradise apple come from? We don't know, because unprocessed apples are very unappetizing, and if they were to tempt Adam, they are definitely too small.

Aside from their flavor and use in canning, they make a beautiful addition to parks and home gardens.

And from what I understand, in spring, the flowers of this tree are much prettier than the fruit in autumn.