Punica granatum (Pomegranate)

Punica granatum (Pomegranate) is a multi-stemmed, upright-oval to spreading rounded shrub, prized for its orange-sized edible fruit and its ornamental qualities. Its numerous slender branches are clothed with lustrous, narrowly oblong, rich green leaves, that emerge bronze in spring. Evergreen in warm winter areas, they change to soft yellow-green, sometimes brilliant yellow, in the fall. Blooming throughout the summer, beautiful funnel-shaped, crepe paper, bright scarlet flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), are borne singly or in clusters at the branch tips. Shining against the foliage, the flamboyant flowers are followed by spherical, reddish-brown, leathery-skinned fruits, up to 4 in. across (10 cm). They can be eaten fresh or used in jams or jellies. Pomegranate is partially self-fertile, so planting two or more varieties increases fruit set. An extremely attractive shrub in flower and worthy of inclusion in the border.

• Grows up to 6-20 ft. tall (180-600 cm) and 4-15 ft. wide (120-450 cm).
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in rich, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soils. During growth, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. Water sparingly in winter. Drought tolerant once established.
• Perfect for beds and borders, as a specimen or accent plant, hedges. Great in Mediterranean style gardens. Where not winter hardy, grow in containers to be overwintered indoors.
• Remove root suckers as they develop. Prune lightly, thinning out dense growth, shortening lanky growth.
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Propagate by seed sown at 55-64°F (13-18°C) in spring or root semi-hardwood cuttings with bottom heat in summer.
• Native from Southern Europe to Northern India.