Description
The Red Spanish Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a fruiting shrub or small tree highly prized in Spain for its historical, cultural, and agricultural significance.
Known as “granada” in Spanish, it thrives in the Mediterranean climate of the region and is particularly associated with the southern province of Granada, from which the fruit takes its name.
Tree:
Size: A deciduous shrub or small tree reaching 10–20 feet (3–6 meters) in height.
Trunk: Thin and slightly twisted, often with multiple stems or a single trunk when pruned.
Bark: Light brown to gray, smooth when young and fissured with age.
Leaves:
Type: Simple, glossy, and lance-shaped.
Color: Bright green in spring and summer, turning yellow in autumn before falling.
Flowers:
Type: Showy, bell-shaped flowers with crinkled petals.
Color: Bright orange-red.
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer.
Pollination: Primarily self-pollinating but benefits from bees for increased fruit set.
Fruit:
Shape: Rounded, 2–5 inches (5–12 cm) in diameter.
Skin: Thick, leathery, and ranges in color from yellow-orange to deep red.
Seeds: Encased in juicy, jewel-like sacs called arils.
Taste: Sweet-tart with a refreshing flavor profile.
Ripening: Late summer to autumn (September to November in Spain).
Growing Conditions in Spain:
Climate:
Ideal Conditions: Thrives in the warm, dry summers and mild winters of Mediterranean climates.
Temperature Range: Tolerates heat but requires some winter chill (cold hardiness zones 7–11).
Soil:
Prefers well-drained soils, ranging from sandy to loamy.
Tolerates slightly alkaline soils, common in many parts of Spain.
Sunlight:
Requires full sun (6–8 hours daily) for optimal growth and fruit production.
Watering:
The Red Spanish Pomegranate Drought-tolerant once established but produces better fruit with consistent moisture.
Traditional irrigation systems, such as the ancient acequia canals, are still used in some regions.
| Scientific Name |
Punica granatum |
| Family |
Lythraceae |
| Common Names |
Pomegranate, Granada, Grenade |
| Origin |
Iran and surrounding region |
| Mature Height |
10-20 feet |
| Fruit Diameter |
2-5 inches |
| Flower Color |
Bright orange-red |
| Preferred Sunlight |
Full sun (6-8 hours daily) |
| USDA Hardiness Zones |
7-11 |
| Fruit Ripening Season |
Late Summer to Autumn |
