|
|
| Line 1: |
Line 1: |
| − | {{Taxobox | + | __NOTOC__{{Plantbox |
| − | | color = lightgreen | + | | name = ''Punica granatum'' |
| − | | name = Pomegranate | + | | common_names = Pomegranate |
| | + | | growth_habit = shrub, small tree |
| | + | | high = 6-9m (20-30 ft) |
| | + | | wide = <!--- 65cm (25 inches) --> |
| | + | | origin = Iran to the Himalayas |
| | + | | poisonous = <!--- indicate parts of plants which are known/thought to be poisonous --> |
| | + | | lifespan = perennial |
| | + | | exposure = full sun{{SSN}} |
| | + | | water = regular for fruit production{{SSN}} |
| | + | | features = flowers, fruit |
| | + | | hardiness = <!--- frost sensitive, hardy, 5°C (40°F), etc --> |
| | + | | bloom = <!--- seasons which the plant blooms, if it is grown for its flowers --> |
| | + | | usda_zones = 7b-11 |
| | + | | sunset_zones = 5-31, warmer 32{{SSN}} |
| | + | | color = IndianRed |
| | | image = Pomegranate fruit.jpg | | | image = Pomegranate fruit.jpg |
| | + | | image_width = 240px <!--- leave as 240px if horizontal orientation photo, or change to 180px if vertical --> |
| | | image_caption = Fruit of pomegranate | | | image_caption = Fruit of pomegranate |
| − | | regnum = [[Plantae]] | + | | regnum = Plantae |
| − | | divisio = [[Flowering plant|Magnoliophyta]] | + | | divisio = Magnoliophyta |
| − | | classis = [[Magnoliopsida]] | + | | classis = Magnoliopsida |
| − | | subclassis = [[Rosidae]] | + | | subclassis = Rosidae |
| − | | ordo = [[Myrtales]] | + | | ordo = Myrtales |
| − | | familia = [[Lythraceae]] | + | | familia = Lythraceae |
| − | | genus = ''[[Punica]]'' | + | | genus = Punica |
| − | | species = '''''P. granatum''''' | + | | species = granatum |
| − | | binomial = Punica granatum | + | | subspecies = |
| − | | binomial_authority = [[Carolus Linnaeus|L.]] | + | | cultivar = |
| | }} | | }} |
| − | The '''Pomegranate''' (''Punica granatum'') is a [[fruit]]-bearing [[deciduous]] [[shrub]] or small [[tree]] growing to 5–8 m tall. The pomegranate is native from [[Iran]] to the Himalayas in northern [[India]] and has been cultivated and naturalized over the whole [[Mediterranean]] region including [[Azerbaijan]] since ancient times. It is widely cultivated throughout Iran, India and the drier parts of southeast Asia, Malaya, the East Indies and tropical Africa. The tree was introduced into California by Spanish settlers in 1769. In the United States, it is grown for its fruits mainly in the drier parts of California and Arizona.
| + | '''Growth Habits:''' The pomegranate is a neat, rounded shrub or small tree that can grow to 20 or 30 ft., but more typically to 12 to 16 ft. in height. Dwarf varieties are also known. It is usually deciduous, but in certain areas the leaves will persist on the tree. The trunk is covered by a red-brown bark which later becomes gray. The branches are stiff, angular and often spiny. There is a strong tendency to sucker from the base. Pomegranates are also long-lived. There are specimens in Europe that are known to be over 200 years of age. The vigor of a pomegranate declines after about 15 years, however. |
| | | | |
| − | ==Foliage and fruit==
| + | '''Foliage:''' The pomegranate has glossy, leathery leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped. |
| − | [[Image:Illustration Punica granatum2.jpg|thumb|left|120px|Illustration by [[Otto Wilhelm Thomé]], 1885.]]
| |
| − | The [[leaf|leaves]] are opposite or sub-opposite, glossy, narrow oblong, entire, 3–7 cm long and 2 cm broad. The [[flower]]s are bright red, 3 cm in diameter, with five petals (often more on cultivated plants). The [[fruit]] is between an [[orange (fruit)|orange]] and a [[grapefruit]] in size, 7–12 cm in diameter with a rounded hexagonal shape, and has thick reddish skin and around 600 [[seed]]s. <ref>[http://www.aquaphoenix.com/misc/pomegranate/ How many seeds does a pomegranate have? (statistical analysis)], demonstrating parietal placentation.</ref> The edible parts are the seeds and the red seed pulp surrounding them. There are some [[cultivars]] which have been introduced that have a range of pulp colours like purple.
| |
| | | | |
| − | The only other species in the genus ''[[Punica]]'', Socotra Pomegranate (''Punica protopunica''), is [[endemic (ecology)|endemic]] to the island of [[Socotra]]. It differs in having pink (not red) flowers and smaller, less sweet fruit. Pomegranates are drought tolerant, and can be grown in dry areas with either a Mediterranean winter rainfall climate or in summer rainfall climates. In wetter areas, they are prone to root decay from [[fungus|fungal]] diseases. They are tolerant of moderate frost, down to about −10°C.
| + | '''Flowers:''' The attractive scarlet, white or variegated flowers are over an inch across and have 5 to 8 crumpled petals and a red, fleshy, tubular calyx which persists on the fruit. The flowers may be solitary or grouped in twos and threes at the ends of the branches. The pomegranate is self-pollinated as well as cross-pollinated by insects. Cross-pollination increases the fruit set. Wind pollination is insignificant. |
| | | | |
| − | ==Etymology==
| + | '''Fruit:''' The nearly round, 2-1/2 to 5 in. wide fruit is crowned at the base by the prominent calyx. The tough, leathery skin or rind is typically yellow overlaid with light or deep pink or rich red. The interior is separated by membranous walls and white, spongy, bitter tissue into compartments packed with sacs filled with sweetly acid, juicy, red, pink or whitish pulp or aril. In each sac there is one angular, soft or hard seed. High temperatures are essential during the fruiting period to get the best flavor. The pomegranate may begin to bear in 1 year after planting out, but 2-1/2 to 3 years is more common. Under suitable conditions the fruit should mature some 5 to 7 months after bloom. |
| − | {{nutritionalvalue | name=Pomegranate, aril only | kJ=285 | protein=0.95 g | fat=0.3 g | carbs=17.17 g | fiber=0.6 g | | sugars=16.57 g | iron_mg=0.30 | calcium_mg=3 | magnesium_mg=3 | phosphorus_mg=8 | potassium_mg=259 | zinc_mg=0.12 | vitC_mg=6.1 | pantothenic_mg=0.596 | vitB6_mg=0.105 | folate_ug=6 | thiamin_mg=0.030 | riboflavin_mg=0.063 | niacin_mg=0.300 | right=1 | source_usda=1 }}
| |
| − | The name "pomegranate" derives from [[Latin (language)|Latin]] ''pomum'' ("apple") and ''granatus'' ("seeded"). This has influenced the common name for pomegranate in many languages (e.g. [[German language|German]] ''Granatapfel'', seeded apple). The genus name ''Punica'' is named for the [[Phoenicians]], who were active in broadening its cultivation, partly for religious reasons; consequently in classical Latin the fruit's name was ''malum punicum'' or ''malum granatum'', where "malum" was broadly applied to many apple-like fruits.
| |
| − | A separate, widespread root for "pomegranate" is the Egyptian and Semitic ''rmn''. Attested in Ancient [[Egyptian language|Egyptian]], in [[Hebrew language|Hebrew]] ''rimmôn'', and in [[Arabic language|Arabic]] ''rummân'', this root was brought by Arabic to a number of languages, including [[Portuguese language|Portuguese]] (''romã'')<ref>Habeeb Salloum [http://www.saudiaramcoworld.com/issue/200102/arabian.memories.in.portugal.htm Arabian Memories in Portugal]</ref>, and [[Kabyle language|Kabyle]] ''rrumman'' and [[Maltese Language|Maltese]] "rumen".
| |
| | | | |
| − | According to the ''[[OED]]'', the weapon [[grenade]] derived its name, attested in 1532, from the French name for the fruit, which is ''la grenade'' (from which also comes the name applied to a kind of syrup, originally pomegranate syrup, widely used in cocktails and [[grenadine]]).
| + | '''Adaptation:''' Pomegranates prefer a semi-arid mild-temperate to subtropical climate and are naturally adapted to regions with cool winters and hot summers. A humid climate adversely affects the formation of fruit. The tree can be severely injured by temperatures below 12° F. In the U. S. pomegranates can be grown outside as far north as southern Utah and Washington, D.C. but seldom set fruit in these areas. The tree adapts well to container culture and will sometimes fruit in a greenhouse. |
| | | | |
| − | Even though this fruit does not originate from China, one common nickname is "Chinese apple"
| + | ==Cultivation== |
| − | | + | [[Image:Illustration Punica granatum2.jpg|thumb|120px|Illustration by [[Otto Wilhelm Thomé]], 1885.]] |
| − | In Jamaica, this fruit is commonly refered to as the "pan-ga-nat".
| + | [[Image:Punica.granatum(01).jpg|thumb|Pomegranate tree]] |
| − | | |
| − | ==Cultivation and uses== | |
| − | [[Image:Punica.granatum(04).jpg|thumb|left|Pomegranate leaves]] | |
| − | [[Image:Punica.granatum(01).jpg|thumb|left|Pomegranate tree]] | |
| − | The pomegranate originated from [[Persia]] ([[Iran]]) and has been cultivated in [[Central Asia]], [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], [[Armenia]], [[Azerbaijan]] and the [[Mediterranean region]] for several millennia.<ref>S. D. Doijode, ''Seed Storage of Horticultural Crops'', p. 77</ref>
| |
| − | | |
| − | In [[Georgia (country)|Georgia]], and [[Armenia]] to the east of the [[Black Sea]], there are wild pomegranate groves outside of ancient abandoned settlements. The cultivation of the pomegranate has a long history in Armenia; decayed remains of pomegranates dating back to 1000 BC have been found in the country.<ref>[http://www.armenianow.com/archive/2004/2003/june13/shoppingforasymbol/index.htm The pomegranate in mythology]</ref>
| |
| − | | |
| − | Carbonized pips and pieces of the peel of the fruit has been identified in [[Early Bronze Age]] levels of [[Jericho]], as well as [[Late Bronze Age]] levels of [[Hala Sultan Tekke]] on [[Cyprus]] and [[Tiryns]]. A large, dry pomegranate was found in the tomb of [[Djehuty]], the butler of Queen [[Hatshepsut]]; [[Mesopotamian]] [[cuneiform]] records mention pomegranates from the mid-[[Third millennium BC]] onwards.<ref>[[Daniel Zohary]] and [[Maria Hopf]], ''Domestication of plants in the Old World'', third edition (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2000), p. 171.</ref>
| |
| − | It is also extensively grown in [[Northern and southern China|South China]] and in [[Southeast Asia]], whether originally spread along the route of the [[Silk Road]] or brought by sea traders.
| |
| − | | |
| − | The ancient city of [[Granada]] in [[Spain]] was renamed after the fruit during the [[Moors|Moorish]] period. Spanish colonists later introduced the fruit to the [[Caribbean]] and [[Latin America]], but in the English colonies it was less at home: "Don't use the pomegranate inhospitably, a stranger that has come so far to pay his respects to thee" the English [[Quaker]] [[Peter Collinson]] wrote to the botanizing [[John Bartram]] in [[Philadelphia]], 1762. "Plant it against the side of thy house, nail it close to the wall. In this manner it thrives wonderfully with us, and flowers beautifully, and bears fruit this hot year. I have twenty-four on one tree... [[John Fothergill (physician)|Doctor Fothergill]] says, of all trees this is most salutiferous to mankind."<ref> Quoted in [[Ann Leighton]], ''American Gardens in the Eighteenth Century: "For Use or for Delight"'', ([[University of Massachusetts]], 1986), p. 242.</ref> The pomegranate had been introduced as an exotic to England the previous century, by [[John Tradescant the elder]], but the disappointment that it did not set fruit there led to its repeated introduction to the American colonies, even New England. It succeeded in the South: Bartram received a barrel of pomegranates and oranges from a correspondent in [[Charleston, South Carolina]], 1764. [[Thomas Jefferson]] planted pomegranates at [[Monticello]] in 1771: he had them from [[George Wythe]] of Williamsburg.<ref>Leighton, ''American Gardens'', p. 272.</ref>
| |
| − | | |
| − | ===Culinary use===
| |
| | [[Image:Pomegranate03 edit.jpg|thumb|250px|Pomegranate fruit, opened]] | | [[Image:Pomegranate03 edit.jpg|thumb|250px|Pomegranate fruit, opened]] |
| − | [[Image:Pomseeds2.jpg|thumb|250px|Pomegranate seeds]]
| + | '''Location:''' Pomegranates should be placed in the sunniest, warmest part of the yard or orchard for the best fruit, although they will grow and flower in part shade. The attractive foliage, flowers and fruits of the pomegranate, as well as its smallish size make it a excellent landscaping plant. |
| − | After opening the pomegranate by scoring it with a knife and breaking it open, the [[aril]]s (seed casings) are separated from the skin (peel) and internal white supporting structures (pith and carpellary membrane). Separating the red arils can be simplified by performing this task in a bowl of water, whereby the arils will sink and the white structures will float to the top. The entire seed is consumed raw, though the fleshy outer portion of the seed is the part that is desired. The taste differs depending on the variety of pomegranate and its state of ripeness. It can be very [[Basic taste#sweetness|sweet]] or it can be very [[Basic taste#Sourness|sour]] or [[tangy]], but most fruits lie somewhere in between, which is the characteristic taste, laced with notes of its [[tannin]].
| |
| − | | |
| − | Pomegranate juice is a popular drink in the [[Middle East]], and is also used in [[Iran]]ian and [[India]]n cuisine; it began to be widely marketed in the US in 2004{{Fact|date=March 2007}}. Pomegranate concentrate is used in [[Syria]]n cuisine. [[Grenadine]] syrup is thickened and sweetened pomegranate juice; it is used in [[cocktail]] mixing. Before the tomato arrived in the Middle East, grenadine was widely used in many Persian foods; it can still be found in traditional recipes.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Wild pomegranate seeds are sometimes used as a spice, known as '''anardana''' (which literally means pomegranate ([[anar]]) seeds (dana) in [[Persian language|Persian]]), most notably in Indian and Pakistani cuisine but also as a replacement for pomegranate syrup in Persian and Middle Eastern cuisine. As a result of this, the dried whole seeds can often be obtained in ethnic markets. The seeds are separated from the flesh, dried for 10–15 days and used as an acidic agent for chutney and curry production. The seeds may also be ground in order to avoid seeds becoming stuck in the teeth when eating dishes prepared with them. The seeds of the wild pomegranate ''daru'' from the [[Himalayas]] is considered the highest quality source for this spice.
| |
| − | | |
| − | In Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan, pomegranate ([[Turkish language|Turkish]]: ''nar''; [[Azerbaijani language|Azerbaijani]]: ''nar''; [[Armenian language|Armenian]]: ''nur'') is used in a variety of ways, notably as pomegranate juice. In Turkey pomegranate sauce, ([[Turkish language|Turkish]]: ''nar ekşisi'') is used as a salad dressing, to marinate meat, or simply to drink straight. Pomegranate seeds are also used in salads, in Muhammara (Turkish [[Walnut]] [[Garlic]] Spread) and in [[Güllaç]], a famous Turkish dessert. In Azerbaijan and Armenia, pomegranate is also used to make high-quality wine which is successfully exported to other countries.
| |
| − | | |
| − | In [[Greece]], pomegranate ([[Greek language|Greek]]: ροδι, rodi) is used in many recipes; such as ''kollivozoumi'', a creamy broth made from boiled wheat, pomegranates and raisins; [[legume]] salad with wheat and pomegranate; traditional Middle Eastern lamb [[kabobs]] with pomegranate glaze; pomegranate [[eggplant]] relish; [[avocado]] and pomegranate dip; are just some of the dishes it is used in culinary. Pomegranate is also made into a [[liqueur]] and popular [[Greek Sweets of the Spoon|fruit confectionery]] that can be used as [[ice cream]] topping, or mixed with [[yogurt]], and even spread as [[jams]] over toast for breakfast.
| |
| − | | |
| − | ===Health benefits===
| |
| − | One pomegranate delivers 40% of an adult's daily [[vitamin C]] requirement. It is also a rich source of [[folic acid]] and of [[antioxidant]]s. Pomegranates are high in [[polyphenol]]s. The most abundant polyphenols in pomegranate are hydrolysable [[tannin]]s, particularly [[punicalagins]], which have been shown in many peer-reviewed research publications to be the [[antioxidant]] responsible for the [[free-radical]] scavenging ability of pomegranate juice.
| |
| − | | |
| − | Many food and [[dietary supplement]] makers have found the advantages of using pomegranate extracts (which have no sugar, calories, or additives), instead of the juice, as healthy ingredients in their products. Many pomegranate extracts are essentially [[ellagic acid]], which is largely a by-product of the juice extraction process. Ellagic acid has only been shown in published studies to absorb into the body when consumed as ellagitannins such as [[punicalagins]].<ref>Mertens-Talcott S.U. et al.
| |
| − | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=17090147&query_hl=2&itool=pubmed_docsum Absorption, metabolism, and antioxidant effects of pomegranate (Punica granatum l.) polyphenols after ingestion of a standardized extract in healthy human volunteers] ''J Agric Food Chem.'' 2006 Nov 15;54(23):8956–61.</ref>
| |
| − | | |
| − | In several human clinical trials, the juice of the pomegranate has been found effective in reducing several heart risk factors, including [[LDL oxidation]], [[macrophage]] oxidative status, and foam cell formation, all of which are steps in [[atherosclerosis]] and heart disease. Tannins have been identified as the primary components responsible for the reduction of oxidative states which lead to these risk factors.[http://www.nutritionhealthinfo.com/pomegranate/] Pomegranate has been shown to reduce systolic blood pressure by inhibiting serum angiotension converting enzyme (ACE).<ref>Aviram M, Dornfeld L.
| |
| − | [http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=pubmed&cmd=Retrieve&dopt=AbstractPlus&list_uids=11500191&query_hl=1&itool=pubmed_docsum Pomegranate juice consumption inhibits serum angiotensin converting enzyme activity and reduces systolic blood pressure] ''[[Atherosclerosis]]'' 2001 Sep;158(1):195–8</ref>
| |
| − | | |
| − | Research suggests that pomegranate juice may be effective against prostate cancer<ref> [http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2005-09/uow-cpp092205.php Can pomegranates prevent prostate cancer? A new study offers promise] 26 September 2005</ref><ref>BBC [http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/5132546.stm Juice 'can slow prostate cancer'] 1 July 2006</ref> and osteoarthritis.<ref>[http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2005/09/050901072114.htm Pomegranate Fruit Shown To Slow Cartilage Deterioration In Osteoarthritis]</ref>
| |
| − | | |
| − | The juice can also be used as an [[antiseptic]] when applied to cuts{{Fact|date=February 2007}}.
| |
| | | | |
| − | Researchers at the University of Wisconsin - Madison recently discovered the potential benefits of pomegranate juice in stopping the growth of lung cancer.<ref>[http://www.news.wisc.edu/13633.html UW study shows pomegranate juice may help fight lung cancer]</ref>
| + | '''Soil:''' The pomegranate does best in well-drained ordinary soil, but also thrives on calcareous or acidic loam as well as rock strewn gravel. |
| | | | |
| − | ==Pomegranates and symbolism==
| + | '''Irrigation:''' Once established, pomegranates can take considerable drought, but for good fruit production they must be irrigated. To establish new plants they should be watered every 2 to 4 weeks during the dry season. The plants are tolerant of moderately saline water and soil conditions. |
| − | *[[Exodus]] chapter 28:33–34 directed that images of pomegranates be woven onto the borders of [[Hebrews|Hebrew]] priestly robes. 1 Kings chapter 7:13–22 describes pomegranates depicted in the temple King Solomon built in Jerusalem. Jewish tradition teaches that the pomegranate is a symbol for righteousness, because it is said to have 613 seeds which corresponds with the [[613 mitzvot]] or [[commandments]] of the [[Torah]]. For this reason and others many Jews eat pomegranates on [[Rosh Hashanah]].
| |
| | | | |
| − | *For the same reason ({{bibleverse|Exodus|28:33–34}}), pomegranates are a motif found in Christian religious decoration, they are often woven into the fabric on [[vestments]] and [[antependia|liturgical hangings]], and wrought in metalwork.
| + | '''Fertilizing:''' In the West, the trees are given 2 to 4-ounce applications of ammonium sulfate or other nitrogen fertilizer the first two springs. After that very little fertilizer is needed, although the plants respond to an annual mulch of rotted manure or other compost. |
| | | | |
| − | *The wild pomegranate did not grow natively in the Aegean area in [[Neolithic]] times. It originated in the [[Iranian]] east and came to the Aegean world along the same cultural pathways that brought the goddess whom the [[Anatolia]]ns worshipped as [[Cybele]] and the [[Mesopotamia]]s as [[Ishtar]].
| + | '''Pruning:''' Plants should be cut back when they are about 2 ft. high. From this point allow 4 or 5 shoots to develop, which should be evenly distributed around the stem to keep the plant well balanced. These should start about 1 ft. from the ground, giving a short but well-defined trunk. Any shoots which appear above or below should be removed as should any suckers. Since the fruits are borne only at the tips of new growth, it is recommended that for the first 3 years the branches be judiciously shortened annually to encourage the maximum number of new shoots on all sides, prevent straggly development and achieve a strong well framed plant. After the 3rd year, only suckers and dead branches are removed. |
| | | | |
| − | *The myth of [[Persephone]], the dark goddess of the Underworld, also prominently features the pomegranate. In one version of [[Greek mythology]], [[Persephone]] was kidnapped by Hades and taken off to live in the underworld as his wife. Her mother, [[Demeter]] (goddess of the Harvest), went into mourning for her lost daughter and thus all green things ceased to grow. [[Zeus]], the highest ranking of the Greek gods, could not leave the Earth to die, so he commanded Hades to return Persephone. It was the rule of the [[Fates]] that anyone who consumed food or drink in the Underworld was doomed to spend eternity there. Persephone had no food, but [[Hades]] tricked her into eating four pomegranate seeds while she was still his prisoner and so, because of this, she was condemned to spend four months in the Underworld every year. During these four months, when [[Persephone]] is sitting on the throne of the Underworld next to her husband [[Hades]], her mother [[Demeter]] mourns and no longer gives fertility to the earth. This be
| + | '''Harvest:''' The fruits are ripe when they have developed a distinctive color and make a metallic sound when tapped. The fruits must be picked before over maturity when they tend to crack open, particularly when rained on. The pomegranate is equal to the apple in having a long storage life. It is best maintained at a temperature of 32° to 41° F. and can be kept for a period of 7 months within this temperature range and at 80 to 85% relative humidity without shrinking or spoiling. The fruits improve in storage, becoming juicier and more flavorful. |
| − | came an ancient Greek explanation for the seasons.
| |
| | | | |
| − | :It should be noted that the number of seeds that Persephone ate is varied, depending on which version of the story is told. The number of seeds she is said to have eaten ranges from three to seven, which accounts for just one barren season if it is just three or four seeds, or two barren seasons (half the year) if she ate six or seven seeds. There is no set number.
| + | ===Propagation=== |
| | + | The pomegranate can be raised from seed but may not come true. Cuttings root easily and plants from them bear fruit after about 3 years. Twelve to 20 inches long cuttings should be taken in winter from mature, one-year old wood. The leaves should be removed and the cuttings treated with rooting hormone and inserted about two-thirds their length into the soil or into some other warm rooting medium. Plants can also be air-layered but grafting is seldom successful. |
| | | | |
| − | *The pomegranate also evoked the presence of the Aegean [[Triple Goddess]] who evolved into the Olympian [[Hera]], who is sometimes represented offering the pomegranate, as in the Polykleitos' [[cult image]] of the Argive [[Heraion]] (see below). According to [[Carl A. P. Ruck]] and [[Danny Staples]], the chambered pomegranate is also a surrogate for the poppy's [[opium|narcotic capsule]], with its comparable shape and chambered interior.<ref>Ruck and Staples, ''The World of Classical Myth'', 1994.</ref> On a Mycenaean seal illustrated in [[Joseph Campbell]]'s ''Occidental Mythology'' 1964, figure 19, the seated Goddess of the double-headed axe (the [[labrys]]) offers three poppy pods in her right hand and supports her breast with her left. She embodies both aspects of the dual goddess, life-giving and death-dealing at once. The Titan [[Orion (mythology)|Orion]] was represented as "marrying" [[Side]], a name that in Boeotia means "pomegranate", thus consecrating the primal hunter to the Goddess. Other Greek dialects call the pomegranate ''rhoa''; its possible connection with the name of the earth goddess [[Rhea (mythology)|Rhea]], inexplicable in Greek, proved suggestive for the mythographer [[Karl Kerenyi]], who suggested that the consonance might ultimately derive from a deeper, [[pre-Indo-European|pre-Indo-European language]] layer.
| + | ===Pests and diseases=== |
| | + | Pomegranates are relatively free of most pests and diseases. Minor problems are leaf and fruit spot and foliar damage by white flies, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects. The roots are seldom bothered by gophers but deer will browse on the foliage. |
| | | | |
| − | [[Image:Pomegranate opened.jpg|thumb|Pomegranate — opened up]]
| + | ==Cultivars== |
| − | *In the sixth century BCE, [[Polykleitos]] took ivory and gold to sculpt the seated [[Argive]] Hera in her temple. She held a scepter in one hand and offered a pomegranate, like a royal orb, in the other. "About the pomegranate I must say nothing," whispered the traveller [[Pausanias (geographer)|Pausanias]] in the second century AD, "for its story is something of a mystery." Indeed, in the Orion story we hear that Hera cast pomegranate-Side into dim [[Erebus]] — "for daring to rival Hera's beauty", which forms the probable point of connection with the older Osiris/Isis story. Since the ancient Egyptians identified the Orion constellation in the sky as [[Sah]] the "soul of [[Osiris]]", the identification of this section of the myth seems relatively complete. Hera wears, not a wreath nor a tiara nor a diadem, but clearly the [[calyx (flower)|calyx]] of the pomegranate that has become her serrated crown.<ref>The pomegranate has a calyx shaped like a crown. In Jewish tradition it has been seen as the original "design" for the proper crown. [http://www.bj.org/parashat_hashavua/parashat_tetzaveh_5765.php]</ref> In some artistic depictions, the pomegranate is found in the hand of [[Mary, the mother of Jesus|Mary]], mother of Jesus. | + | *'''Balegal''' - Originated in San Diego, Calif. Selected by Paul H. Thomson. Large, roundish fruit, 3 inches in diameter. Somewhat larger than Fleshman. Skin pale pink, lighter then Fleshman. Flesh slightly darker than Fleshman, very sweet. |
| | + | *'''Cloud''' - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. Medium-sized fruit with a green-red color. Juice sweet and white. |
| | + | *'''Crab''' - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. Large fruit have red juice that is tart but with a rich flavor. A heavy bearing tree. |
| | + | *'''Early Wonderful''' - Large, deep-red, thin-skinned, delicious fruit. Ripens about 2 weeks ahead of Wonderful. Medium-sized bush with large, orange-red fertile flowers. Blooms late, very productive. |
| | + | *'''Fleshman''' - Originated in Fallbrook, Calif. Selected by Paul H. Thomson. Large, roundish fruit, about 3 inches in diameter, pink outside and in. Very sweet flavor, seeds relatively soft, quality very good. |
| | + | *'''Francis''' - Originated in Jamaica via Florida. Large, sweet, split-resistant fruit. Prolific producer. |
| | + | *'''Granada''' - Originated in Lindsay, Calif. Introduced in 1966. Bud mutation of Wonderful. Fruit resembles Wonderful, but displays a red crown while in the green state, darker red in color and less tart. Ripens one month earlier than Wonderful. Flowers also deeper red. Tree identical to Wonderful. |
| | + | *'''Green Globe''' - Originated in Camarillo, Calif. Selected by John Chater. Large, sweet, aromatic, green-skinned fruit. Excellent quality. |
| | + | *'''Home''' - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. The fruit is variable yellow-red in color, with light pink juice that is sweet and of rich flavor. Some bitterness. |
| | + | *'''King''' - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. Medium to large fruit, somewhat smaller than Balegal and Fleshman. Skin darker pink to red. Flavor very sweet. Has a tendency to split. Bush somewhat of a shy bearer. |
| | + | *'''Phoenicia (Fenecia)''' - Originated in Camarillo, Calif. Selected by John Chater. Large fruit, 4-5 inches in diameter, mottled red-green skin. Flavor sweet, seeds relatively hard. |
| | + | *'''Sweet''' - Fruit is lighter in color than Wonderful, remains slightly greenish with a red blush when ripe. Pink juice, flavor much sweeter than other cultivars. Excellent in fruit punch. Trees highly ornamental, bears at an early age, productive. |
| | + | *'''Utah Sweet''' - Very sweet, good quality fruit. Pink skin and pulp. Seeds notably softer than those of Wonderful and other standard cultivars. Attractive pinkish-orange flowers. |
| | + | *'''Wonderful''' - Originated in Florida. First propagated in California in 1896. Large, deep purple-red fruit. Rind medium thick, tough. Flesh deep crimson in color, juicy and of a delicious vinous flavor. Seeds not very hard. Better for juicing than for eating out of hand. Plant is vigorous and productive. Leading commercial variety in California. |
| | | | |
| − | *In modern times the pomegranate still holds strong symbolic meanings for the Greeks. On important days in the [[Greek Orthodox]] calendar, such as the Presentation of the [[Mary, the mother of Jesus|Virgin Mary]] and on [[Christmas Day]], it is traditional to have at the dinner table ''"polysporia"'', also known by their ancient name "panspermia" in some regions of Greece. In ancient times they were offered to [[Demeter]]{{Fact|date=February 2007}} and to the other gods for fertile land, for the spirits of the dead and in honor of compassionate [[Dionysus]]. In modern times the symbolic meaning is assumed by [[Jesus]] and his mother Mary. Pomegranates are also prominent at Greek weddings and funerals. When Greeks commemorate their dead, they make ''"kollyva"'' as offerings that consist of boiled wheat, mixed with sugar and decorated with pomegranate. It is also traditional in Greece to break a pomegranate on the ground at weddings, on New Years and when one buys a new home for a house guest to bring as a first gift a pomegranate which is placed under/near the '''[[ikonostasi]]''', (home altar), of the house, as it is a symbol of abundance, fertility and good luck. Pomegranate decorations for the home are very common in Greece and sold in most homegoods stores. [http://64.233.161.104/search?q=cache:CehRcicwl6gJ:www.christmasmagazine.com/en/spirit/xmas_greece.asp+pomegranate+New+Years+Greek+good+luck&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=9]
| + | ==Gallery== |
| | + | <gallery> |
| | + | Image:Pomseeds2.jpg|Pomegranate seeds |
| | + | Image:Pomegranate opened.jpg|Pomegranate — opened up |
| | + | Image:WhitePomegranate.JPG|Tree of the white pomegranate |
| | + | Image:Punica.granatum(04).jpg|Pomegranate leaves |
| | + | </gallery> |
| | | | |
| − | == Other == | + | ==References== |
| − | [[Image:WhitePomegranate.JPG|thumb|Tree of the white pomegranate.]] | + | *[http://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/pomegranate.html California Rare Fruit Growers: Pomegranate Fruit Facts] |
| − | *Pomegranate is one of the symbols of [[Armenia]], representing fertility, abundance and marriage.
| + | <!--- xxxxx *[[Standard Cyclopedia of Horticulture]], by L. H. Bailey, MacMillan Co., 1963 --> |
| − | * It is the official logo of many cities in [[Turkey]].
| + | <!--- xxxxx *Flora: The Gardener's Bible, by Sean Hogan. Global Book Publishing, 2003. ISBN 0881925381 --> |
| − | *The [[Persian Immortals|Immortals]], an elite infantry unit in ancient [[Persian Empire|Persia]] had spears with pomegranate-shaped counterweights at the butt made of gold (for officers) and silver (for regular infantry). In modern Iran the fruit is still believed to give long and healthy life.
| + | <!--- xxxxx *American Horticultural Society: A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants, by Christopher Brickell, Judith D. Zuk. 1996. ISBN 0789419432 --> |
| − | *The [[Qur'an]] mentions pomegranates three times (6:99, 6:141, 55:068) — twice as examples of the good things God creates, once as a fruit found in the Garden of Paradise. | + | <!--- xxxxx *Sunset National Garden Book. Sunset Books, Inc., 1997. ISBN 0376038608 --> |
| − | *Pomegranate juice stains clothing permanently unless it is washed out immediately with water — only bleach can remove stains.
| |
| − | *Pomegranate juice is used for natural [[dyeing]] of non-[[Synthetic fiber|synthetic fabric]]s.
| |
| − | *Pomegranate juice is sold in the USA under several labels, and is available in [[health food]] stores and [[supermarket]]s across the country.
| |
| − | *Pomegranate juice will turn [[blue]] when subjected to [[Base (chemistry)|basic]] (ie alkaline) conditions (similar to [[litmus paper]]).
| |
| − | *Although not native to [[China]], [[Korea]] or [[Japan]], the pomegranate is widely grown there and many cultivars have been developed. It is widely used for [[bonsai]], because of its flowers and for the unusual twisted bark that older specimens can attain.
| |
| − | * The pomegranate also gave its name to the [[hand grenade]] from its shape and size (and the resemblance of a pomegranate's seeds to a grenade's fragments), and to the [[garnet]] from its colour. In many languages (including Belarusian, Spanish, French, Polish, and [[Hebrew language|Hebrew]]) the words are exactly the same. | |
| − | *Balaustines are the [[red]] [[rose|rose-like]] [[flower]]s of the pomegranate, which are very bitter to the taste. In medicine, its dried form has been used as an [[astringent]].<ref>[http://digicoll.library.wisc.edu/cgi-bin/HistSciTech/HistSciTech-idx?type=turn&entity=HistSciTech000900240228&isize=L History of Science: Cyclopædia, or, An universal dictionary of arts and sciences…]</ref> (The term "balaustine" ([[Latin language|Latin]]: ''balaustinus'') is also used for a pomegranate-red colour.<ref>Pavey, Don and Roy Osborne. 2003. ''On Colours 1528: A Translation from Latin''. ISBN 1-58112-580-1</ref>) | |
| − | *The pomegranate was the personal emblem of the Holy Roman Emperor, [[Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor|Maximilian I]]. | |
| − | *With the rise in popularity of the pomegranate in American markets, [[Starbucks]] introduced a pomegranate frappuccino in the summer of 2006.
| |
| − | *In the Northern hemisphere, the fruit is typically in season from September to January. In the Southern hemisphere, it is in season from March to May.
| |
| − | *The pomegranate is a divine symbol in Pinto Ricardo's series, [[The Stone Dance of the Chameleon]].
| |
| − | *The pomegranate is one of the symbols of Hera.
| |
| − | *The pomegranate is also called the Food of the Dead.
| |
| − | *In Orthodox Christian [[memorial service (Orthodox)|memorial services]] pomegranate seeds will often be put in the [[koliva]] which is blessed after the service and eaten by all of the mourners.
| |
| | | | |
| − | ==Notes== | + | ==External links== |
| − | {{Reflist}} | + | *{{wplink}} |
| | | | |
| − | == References and external links ==
| + | {{stub}} |
| − | {{commons|Punica_granatum}} | + | [[Category:Categorize]] |
| − | {{Wikibookspar|Cookbook|Pomegranate}}
| |
| − | {{wiktionary}}
| |
| − | * Graham, S. A., J. Hall, K. Sytsma & S. Shi. 2005. Phylogenetic analysis of the Lythraceae based on four gene regions and morphology. ''Int. J. Pl. Sci''. 166: 995–1017.
| |
| − | * [http://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/pomegranate.html Pomegranate Fruit Facts]
| |
| − | *[http://www.reproductionsart.com/subj_art_reproductions.php?id_subjects=10&stt=10&art=Salvador_Dali_DAS001&forder=1&number=DAS001 Pomegranate in Dali's painting]
| |
| − | * [http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6411097 Pomegranates: Jewels in the Fruit Crown]
| |
| − | * [http://altmedicine.about.com/b/a/257681.htm A small caution: Pomegranate Juice and Medication Can Be a Dangerous Mix]
| |
| | | | |
| − | [[Category:Lythraceae]]
| + | <!-- in order to add all the proper categories, go to http://www.plants.am/wiki/Plant_Categories and copy/paste the contents of the page here, and then follow the easy instructions! --> |
| − | [[Category:Spices]]
| |
| − | [[Category:Fruit]]
| |
| − | [[Category:Flora of Armenia]]
| |
| − | [[Category:Fruits of Iran]]
| |
| − | [[Category:Lythraceae]]
| |
Plant Characteristics
| Lifespan:
|
⌛
|
perennial
|
| Origin:
|
✈
|
Iran to the Himalayas
|
|
|
Cultivation
| Exposure:
|
☼
|
[[Exposure::full sunsn]]
|
| Water:
|
◍
|
[[Water::regular for fruit productionsn]]
|
| Features:
|
✓
|
flowers, fruit
|
| Sunset Zones:
|
|
[[Sunset zones::5-31, warmer 32sn]]
|
Growth Habits: The pomegranate is a neat, rounded shrub or small tree that can grow to 20 or 30 ft., but more typically to 12 to 16 ft. in height. Dwarf varieties are also known. It is usually deciduous, but in certain areas the leaves will persist on the tree. The trunk is covered by a red-brown bark which later becomes gray. The branches are stiff, angular and often spiny. There is a strong tendency to sucker from the base. Pomegranates are also long-lived. There are specimens in Europe that are known to be over 200 years of age. The vigor of a pomegranate declines after about 15 years, however.
Foliage: The pomegranate has glossy, leathery leaves that are narrow and lance-shaped.
Flowers: The attractive scarlet, white or variegated flowers are over an inch across and have 5 to 8 crumpled petals and a red, fleshy, tubular calyx which persists on the fruit. The flowers may be solitary or grouped in twos and threes at the ends of the branches. The pomegranate is self-pollinated as well as cross-pollinated by insects. Cross-pollination increases the fruit set. Wind pollination is insignificant.
Fruit: The nearly round, 2-1/2 to 5 in. wide fruit is crowned at the base by the prominent calyx. The tough, leathery skin or rind is typically yellow overlaid with light or deep pink or rich red. The interior is separated by membranous walls and white, spongy, bitter tissue into compartments packed with sacs filled with sweetly acid, juicy, red, pink or whitish pulp or aril. In each sac there is one angular, soft or hard seed. High temperatures are essential during the fruiting period to get the best flavor. The pomegranate may begin to bear in 1 year after planting out, but 2-1/2 to 3 years is more common. Under suitable conditions the fruit should mature some 5 to 7 months after bloom.
Adaptation: Pomegranates prefer a semi-arid mild-temperate to subtropical climate and are naturally adapted to regions with cool winters and hot summers. A humid climate adversely affects the formation of fruit. The tree can be severely injured by temperatures below 12° F. In the U. S. pomegranates can be grown outside as far north as southern Utah and Washington, D.C. but seldom set fruit in these areas. The tree adapts well to container culture and will sometimes fruit in a greenhouse.
Cultivation
Pomegranate fruit, opened
Location: Pomegranates should be placed in the sunniest, warmest part of the yard or orchard for the best fruit, although they will grow and flower in part shade. The attractive foliage, flowers and fruits of the pomegranate, as well as its smallish size make it a excellent landscaping plant.
Soil: The pomegranate does best in well-drained ordinary soil, but also thrives on calcareous or acidic loam as well as rock strewn gravel.
Irrigation: Once established, pomegranates can take considerable drought, but for good fruit production they must be irrigated. To establish new plants they should be watered every 2 to 4 weeks during the dry season. The plants are tolerant of moderately saline water and soil conditions.
Fertilizing: In the West, the trees are given 2 to 4-ounce applications of ammonium sulfate or other nitrogen fertilizer the first two springs. After that very little fertilizer is needed, although the plants respond to an annual mulch of rotted manure or other compost.
Pruning: Plants should be cut back when they are about 2 ft. high. From this point allow 4 or 5 shoots to develop, which should be evenly distributed around the stem to keep the plant well balanced. These should start about 1 ft. from the ground, giving a short but well-defined trunk. Any shoots which appear above or below should be removed as should any suckers. Since the fruits are borne only at the tips of new growth, it is recommended that for the first 3 years the branches be judiciously shortened annually to encourage the maximum number of new shoots on all sides, prevent straggly development and achieve a strong well framed plant. After the 3rd year, only suckers and dead branches are removed.
Harvest: The fruits are ripe when they have developed a distinctive color and make a metallic sound when tapped. The fruits must be picked before over maturity when they tend to crack open, particularly when rained on. The pomegranate is equal to the apple in having a long storage life. It is best maintained at a temperature of 32° to 41° F. and can be kept for a period of 7 months within this temperature range and at 80 to 85% relative humidity without shrinking or spoiling. The fruits improve in storage, becoming juicier and more flavorful.
Propagation
The pomegranate can be raised from seed but may not come true. Cuttings root easily and plants from them bear fruit after about 3 years. Twelve to 20 inches long cuttings should be taken in winter from mature, one-year old wood. The leaves should be removed and the cuttings treated with rooting hormone and inserted about two-thirds their length into the soil or into some other warm rooting medium. Plants can also be air-layered but grafting is seldom successful.
Pests and diseases
Pomegranates are relatively free of most pests and diseases. Minor problems are leaf and fruit spot and foliar damage by white flies, thrips, mealybugs and scale insects. The roots are seldom bothered by gophers but deer will browse on the foliage.
Cultivars
- Balegal - Originated in San Diego, Calif. Selected by Paul H. Thomson. Large, roundish fruit, 3 inches in diameter. Somewhat larger than Fleshman. Skin pale pink, lighter then Fleshman. Flesh slightly darker than Fleshman, very sweet.
- Cloud - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. Medium-sized fruit with a green-red color. Juice sweet and white.
- Crab - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. Large fruit have red juice that is tart but with a rich flavor. A heavy bearing tree.
- Early Wonderful - Large, deep-red, thin-skinned, delicious fruit. Ripens about 2 weeks ahead of Wonderful. Medium-sized bush with large, orange-red fertile flowers. Blooms late, very productive.
- Fleshman - Originated in Fallbrook, Calif. Selected by Paul H. Thomson. Large, roundish fruit, about 3 inches in diameter, pink outside and in. Very sweet flavor, seeds relatively soft, quality very good.
- Francis - Originated in Jamaica via Florida. Large, sweet, split-resistant fruit. Prolific producer.
- Granada - Originated in Lindsay, Calif. Introduced in 1966. Bud mutation of Wonderful. Fruit resembles Wonderful, but displays a red crown while in the green state, darker red in color and less tart. Ripens one month earlier than Wonderful. Flowers also deeper red. Tree identical to Wonderful.
- Green Globe - Originated in Camarillo, Calif. Selected by John Chater. Large, sweet, aromatic, green-skinned fruit. Excellent quality.
- Home - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. The fruit is variable yellow-red in color, with light pink juice that is sweet and of rich flavor. Some bitterness.
- King - From the Univ. of Calif., Davis pomegranate collection. Medium to large fruit, somewhat smaller than Balegal and Fleshman. Skin darker pink to red. Flavor very sweet. Has a tendency to split. Bush somewhat of a shy bearer.
- Phoenicia (Fenecia) - Originated in Camarillo, Calif. Selected by John Chater. Large fruit, 4-5 inches in diameter, mottled red-green skin. Flavor sweet, seeds relatively hard.
- Sweet - Fruit is lighter in color than Wonderful, remains slightly greenish with a red blush when ripe. Pink juice, flavor much sweeter than other cultivars. Excellent in fruit punch. Trees highly ornamental, bears at an early age, productive.
- Utah Sweet - Very sweet, good quality fruit. Pink skin and pulp. Seeds notably softer than those of Wonderful and other standard cultivars. Attractive pinkish-orange flowers.
- Wonderful - Originated in Florida. First propagated in California in 1896. Large, deep purple-red fruit. Rind medium thick, tough. Flesh deep crimson in color, juicy and of a delicious vinous flavor. Seeds not very hard. Better for juicing than for eating out of hand. Plant is vigorous and productive. Leading commercial variety in California.
Gallery
Tree of the white pomegranate
References
External links
.jpg)
.jpg)
