Fruit production, though it cannot be relied upon, is considered an additional asset. Pomegranate fruit grows on deciduous shrubs or small trees 10 to 12 feet in height and width. The plants have numerous, slender, twiggy branches clad with shiny leaves. In spring, hibiscus-like, scarlet flowers with a long period of bloom cover the plants. In summer, cultivars such as 'Wonderful', may set fruit which dangle from the branches and ripen late in the season.
Some varieties bear no fruit and are used exclusively as ornamentals.
These are excellent for accent plants or a hedge. Sometimes they are espaliered. The cultivar, 'Nana', sold as dwarf pomegranate, matures at 6 feet, making it suitable for container culture. Fruits have a hard, leathery, yellowish-orange skin with a rich, red blush. The interior of the fruit consists of many tiny seeds arranged in compartments and enveloped in juicy, red pulp.