Pomegranate, Parfianka

Pomegranate, Parfianka
Scientific Name:  Punica granatum 'Parfianka'

History/general species info:   Native from Iran to the Himalayas in northern India and has been cultivated since ancient times throughout the Mediterranean region of Asia, Africa and Europe. The fruit is considered a symbol of Christmas in Greece. The fruit was carried in desert caravans for its thirst quenching juice. It appears in Egyptian mythology and art, and is referenced in the Old Testament of the Bible. Introduced into the Americas by Spanish missionaries during the 16th century. Renewed interest today because of the health promotions associated with its high level of antioxidants in the pulp or juice.

Characteristics:  Evergreen. Dense, bushy growth habit. Produces red funnel-shaped blooms (measuring 1" or more across) from May to June or July. Salt tolerant. Fruit large and highly colored in beautiful bright red. Vigorous. Heavy crop dependability. Fruit consistently rated the most flavorful pomegranate in tasting trials. Great for juicing or fresh eating. Tolerates heat and humidity and grows well in most any soil. Works well in border plantings or can be grown in containers. Great addition to xeriscape landscapes. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Self-fruitful.

Flower: orange-red flowers

Planting / Care:  Full sun. The pomegranate grows in loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained, and clay soils. Moderate drought tolerance. Thoroughly watered at planting and again every few days for the first couple of weeks.  Feed with an all-purpose fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer. The pomegranate rind can begin to crack open as it ripens, reducing quality and lifespan. Don't pick early because ripening does not continue off the tree - best to keep the fruit on the tree for optimal flavor. Both irregular irrigation and extreme rain can lead to fruit splitting

Size and Spacing: Height: 10-18' Spread: 10-18'  While pomegranate can be trained as a small tree, it is more commonly grown as a bushy shrub. 

Wildlife: bees, birds, hummingbirds, butterflies

Self fruiting -  Bears fruit in 2-3 years.

Links:  
Aggie Horticulture: 
https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/fruit-nut/files/2010/10/pomegranates.pdf

Arbor Day Foundation:
https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=2459

Photo credit: Wikipedia