Punica granatum – Pomegranate seeds

Description

Punica granatum, the pomegranate, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to the Middle East and western Asia, long cultivated for its large, jewel-like fruit filled with sweet-tart, juicy seeds. Highly ornamental and productive, pomegranates also offer attractive orange-red spring flowers and striking autumn foliage.

Plants typically grow 3–5 metres tall but can be pruned to shape or maintained as a smaller shrub. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil and are tolerant of drought and poor soil once established. In New Zealand, they grow best in warm, dry regions with hot summers, though some fruiting is possible in milder climates. Cold tolerance is moderate; mature trees can handle light frosts (–10°C) but young plants benefit from protection.

Pomegranates are self-fertile, but growing multiple plants improves yields and pollination reliability. If growing from seed, raise at least three to five seedlings to account for genetic variability in vigour and productivity.

Germination and Cold Stratification:
Fresh pomegranate seeds do not require cold stratification. Remove any pulp, rinse thoroughly, and sow into a free-draining mix. Keep warm (20–25°C) and moist until germination, which typically occurs in 2–6 weeks. Older or dormant seed may benefit from 2–4 weeks of cold stratification to improve germination rates.

Outdoor Stratification Tip:
Although not strictly necessary, if using stored seed or unsure of freshness, sowing Punica granatum outdoors in autumn can mimic natural conditions and improve results. In cooler areas, the winter cold can act as a soft stratification, with germination occurring in spring. Protect pots from rodents and heavy rain.