Pomegranate Basics

The pomegranate is a fruit that grows in most tropical and subtropical climates. Although the pomegranate tree can adapt to different climatic conditions and soil types, it grows best in regions with cold winters and very hot summers. The main producers of pomegranates are Iran, India, and the United States.

The pomegranate tree can reach 20–23 feet in height, but domestic varieties are usually pruned to a height of 6–12 feet. The tree bears large, trumpet-shaped flowers, and its fruits are generally harvested 5–7 months after flowering. Pomegranates are picked when they are fully mature, as they do not continue to ripen after harvesting. The name “pomegranate“ is derived from the Latin pomum granatus, meaning “seeded apple.”

The pomegranate is thought to be a native of Persia, where it was cultivated as early as 4,000 years ago. Highly prized in Mesopotamia and ancient Egypt, the fruit still plays a important role in Persian cooking today. In Western countries the pomegranate was fairly popular until the 19th century, but it has since lost some of its appeal, particularly as a fresh fruit. The pomegranate is mentioned in the Bible and is often ­represented as a symbol of fertility in Greek and other mythology. The Prophet Muhammad advocated that believers eat pomegranates to purge the body of longing. This fruit also appears in ancient Chinese paintings. Ancient Egyptians buried pomegranates with their dead.

Measuring about 3" in diameter, the pomegranate has a thick, leathery skin, which is inedible. The skin is usually bright red, although some varieties may be yellowish. The inside consists of membranes and seeds.