Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.)

Pomegranates are exotic fruits that grow on a small tree or shrub 15 to 20 ft. tall, which has shiny foliage and a long flowering season. The tree is very long lived. It is sensitive to frost in fall and spring and does not mature well in cool climates. The tree tolerates wet, heavy soils but performs better in deep, well-drained loams. Fruits crack with first fall rains. Propagated from cuttings. Requires only a short chilling period. Resistant to oak root fungus (Armillaria mellea). Not attacked by codling moth or twig borers. Unharvested ripe fruit attracts ants, fruit flies.

Resources

Pomegranate Links, UC Fruit and Nut RIC
Pomegranate, California Rare Fruit Growers
[PDF] Pomegranate Varieties for Planting in the Home Garden, Paul Vossen, Sonoma and Marin Co. UCCE
Growing Pomegranates in California, James H. LaRue, Tulare Co. UCCE