Punica protopunica, the Socotran pomegranate, is a critically endangered shrub native to Yemen's Socotra Island, offering unique horticultural and ecological value.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best growth and flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to Moderate
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-28°C during the growing season. Can tolerate brief dips but avoid frost.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize with a balanced liquid feed during the growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging, especially in containers.
Overwatering is a common issue; err on the side of slightly too dry rather than too wet.
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve air circulation. Light pruning can be done after flowering. Heavy pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Remove suckers from the base to encourage a single-stemmed form if desired.
Propagate from seed sown in spring, or take semi-hardwood cuttings in summer. Seeds may require stratification.
Cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and kept in a warm, humid environment until they establish roots, which can take several weeks to months.
Repot young plants annually in spring, and mature plants every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Repotting helps refresh the soil and provides an opportunity to inspect the root system.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Socotran Pomegranate (Punica protopunica)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Lythraceae |
| Genus | Punica |
| Species | Punica protopunica |
Similar in genus Punica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
