Pomagranate

Botanical Name: 
Punica granatum
Family: 
Pomegranate Family (Punicaceae). This is a very small family of only 2 species, both in the genus Punica.
Origin: 
Native to southern Asia, but long cultivated and naturalized in the Mediterranean region.
At Hearst Castle: 
Planted along the driveway in the Pergola area; in a hedge along entry to tour 1 hello spot; a few along South Esplanade and South Terrace.
Comments: 
Very drought-resistant and tolerant of heat; grown for fruit and for ornamental purposes. The pomegranate has a complex symbolism, and its fruit has been used as a common design motif from ancient times. It can symbolize unity, fertility, resurrection, immortality, or chastity.
Description: 
Deciduous shrub or small tree to 20 feet; leaves oval or lance-shaped, 1-2 inches long; new leaves reddish, becoming light yellowish green; flowers bright orangish red, 1-2 inches wide; blooms in late spring and forms fruit in fall; fruit reddish, about the size of an orange with numerous juice seeds inside.