Punica granatum Nana
Family: Punicaceae
Dwarf Pomegranate
Origin: South Asia
Every aspect of this form is dwarf compared to the basic pomegranate – from its overall size to its finer leaves and smaller flowers and fruits. Due to this – it is a plant especially recommended for miniature bonsai and small styles. Apart from the pomegranate’s stunning seasonal orange flowers, it presents so many other notable characteristics. It has a marvelous naturally-twisting style trunk, that very easily adopts a gnarled, ancient appearance – something widely sought in bonsai. Pomegranates can be very easily propagated – so group plantings can be quickly created from quite thick branches taken from a parent plant. If you shade the tree and keep it slightly dry before mid-season, the tree is encouraged to set flowering shoots. Place the pomegranate in a position of good light – but where it is sheltered from frost and not exposed to drying winds. Don’t plant the pot in a dish or shallow container. It likes water and flowers well when it is slightly root-bound, so choose a pot that is a bit deeper than usual. This plant does not like hard freeze and is not very hardy. Also be careful when wiring as the branches of the pomegranate are very brittle and break easily. Prefers acidic, well-drained soil.
