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Pomegranate

Punica granatum

Last reviewed: August 2026

Pomegranate (Punica granatum)
Photo: (c) H. Zell, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA)

Toxicity unknown

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

96"–240" H × 72"–180" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native alternatives to Pomegranate

Pomegranate is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 446 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

A deciduous shrub or small tree with narrow glossy leaves, showy orange red flowers in early summer, and leathery fruit in fall. It tolerates heat and drought once established and needs full sun to fruit well.

In an HOA neighborhood

Pomegranate is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation bed, border.

Wildlife value

Flowers offer nectar that generalist visitors will use, but as a non-native it feeds no local caterpillars. Treat it as garden interest rather than habitat.

Common questions

How much sun does Pomegranate need?
Pomegranate grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Pomegranate bloom?
Pomegranate blooms in May and June.
Is Pomegranate HOA-friendly?
Pomegranate is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Pomegranate? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz