Punica granatum is one of two species that makes up the genus Punica. Native to the Mediterranean and Asia, Pomegranates have opposite, narrowly oblong, shiny leaves and showy funnel shaped flowers available in a variety of colours. The flowers are followed by yellow leather-skinned fruits that are flushed with red. Pomegranates require Autumn temperatures of 13-16°C for fruit to ripen and can be a rare occurrence in cooler climates.

Notes on bonsai cultivation

Position Outside in full sun during the growing season. Though slightly frost hardy as trees in the ground, it is wise to bring indoors when temperatures drop below 3-5°C in the Autumn, preferably after leaf-fall. Indoors find a well lit, cool position.

Feeding For flowers and fruiting feed fortnightly with low nitrogen, high phosphorous and high potassium fertilisers from Spring to Autumn. For trees requiring maximum growth remove flowers and feed high nitrogen fertiliser.

Repotting Every two years as buds extend in Spring. Very old specimens can be left longer and repotted as necessary.

Pruning Prune back to one or two sets of leaves. For flowers allow growth to extend unpruned until after flowering.

Wiring Anytime. Care should be taken with older branches as they become brittle.

Propagation Sow seed at 13-18°C in Spring. Root semi-ripe cuttings in Summer. Air-layer after Spring growth hardens.

Pests and diseases Aphids, scale insects and mites. Occasionally mildew in very damp, humid weather.

Styles Most commonly seen as informal uprights in all sizes though should suit the size of the fruit.