Punica granatum 'Haku-botan', commonly known as Haku-botan Pomegranate is a unique Japanese Pomegranate tree that yields very large, creamy white-skinned pomegranates with flavourful, low acid, creamy white flesh. It's attractive, double creamy-white flowers are reminiscent of hibiscus flowers (in July to September). This White Pomegranate Tree thrives in heat and sun. Haku-botan is considered self-fertile, but planting a second variety nearby could improve fruit production. Fruit ripens in late fall, and it can start bearing 1 to 2 years after planting. It is not unreasonable to expect a yield of 20 pounds of fruit annually for a mature outdoor tree. The tree grows to 6-10 feet tall. With its size and thorny branches, it makes it a great hedge. Hardy to zone 8a (-12 °C), grow it in containers or planters, and bring it in a warmer area (inside a cold frame greenhouse for example) during the coldest winter months (from November to March). Use as a shade or specimen tree, in edible gardens, or in planters in the garden, or on the patio. Attracts pollinators. Haku-botan Pomegranate Tree is not particularly bothered by disease or pests. With minimal maintenance it will produce luscious fruits year after year. Foliage turns a nice yellow in fall.
