Punica granatum Acco - Pomegranate

Punica granatum 'Acco' is a variety of pomegranate notable for its early ripening. Unlike most fruiting pomegranates, this one does not require a long, warm autumn to ripen its fruits. In Spain and southern France, they are harvested between late August and late September. These round pomegranates are medium-sized (250 grams), turning red when ripe. Their flesh is red, with a sweet and sugary flavour, containing tender seeds. This fruit tree is particularly suited to the Mediterranean region. It can also be attempted along the Atlantic coast, though without guarantee regarding sugar levels and organoleptic qualities.

The fruiting pomegranate 'Acco' (Punica granatum 'Akko') belongs to the botanical family Lythraceae. The species Punica granatum originates from Western and Central Asia, particularly Iran, Afghanistan, and the Himalayas, and has naturalised in the Mediterranean region.

The 'Acco' cultivar was developed in Israel for its early fruiting and fruit quality. This deciduous bush has a spreading habit and can reach a height of 3 to 4 m, with a similar spread. The tree has moderate vigour for a pomegranate. Its growth is considered moderately fast. The glossy green, ovate leaves measure about 3 to 7 cm in length. They are opposite, single, entire, and smooth, with pinnate veins. In autumn, they turn golden yellow before falling. The stems are angular and may bear short thorns. The bark, initially smooth and light brown, tends to become rougher and greyer with age. Young shoots are often reddish or brownish.

The flowering period, lasting from May to June in the south, reveals bright orange-red hermaphrodite flowers. These flowers, measuring between 3 and 4 cm in diameter, have a corolla composed of 5 to 8 crumpled petals and a thick, tubular base. They are usually solitary or grouped in small cymes at the shoot tips.

The fruits, called pomegranates, ripen from late August to October, depending on the climate. They are spherical, with a diameter of 5 to 12 cm, and display a bright red bark when ripe. Each fruit, weighing between 200 and 300 grams, contains numerous seeds surrounded by juicy, sweet ruby-red pulp: the arils. The seeds are relatively tender, making these fruits pleasant to eat.

Harvest 'Acco' pomegranates when the fruits reach a bright red hue and begin to split slightly, indicating optimal ripeness. To avoid damaging their thick skin, it is recommended to cut them with secateurs rather than pulling them. Once harvested, pomegranates can be stored for several weeks in a cool, dry place, and up to several months in the refrigerator. In cooking, they are prized for their juicy, sweet arils, enjoyed fresh, in salads, as juice, or in desserts. They add a tangy touch to savoury dishes, particularly tagines, sauces, or marinades. Their juice is rich in antioxidants and is used to prepare syrups, such as pomegranate molasses, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.

The 'Acco' pomegranate can only tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C at the lowest. It is therefore best suited to regions spared harsh winters. This small tree is also drought-resistant once established, but regular irrigation promotes better fruiting. The pomegranate prefers sunny positions and well-drained, fairly rich soil. It is also relatively disease-resistant, though monitoring is recommended to prevent potential aphid infestations or other pests.

A symbol of abundance like its iconic ancestor from ancient civilisations, the 'Acco' pomegranate is a magnificent specimen to plant as a specimen in warm locations. It will thrive wherever the olive tree can grow and fruit. It can also be used in a large Mediterranean fruiting hedge, paired with Osage orange, strawberry trees, or Japanese loquat...

The city of Granada, located in southern Spain, takes its name from the pomegranate, introduced by the Moors and abundantly planted in the lavish gardens of the Alhambra. A symbol of cultural exchange between East and West, this majestic tree once adorned the legendary Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Later, the Romans discovered it in Carthage and named it the "Apple of Carthage."