Pomegranate 'Kara Bala Miursal' Punica granatum)

Dark, Sweet, and Rare Variety

Botanical Name: Punica granatum
Common Names: Pomegranate 'Kara Bala Miursal', Kara Bala Pomegranate
Family: Lythraceae
Origin: Central Asia (Azerbaijan)

The Pomegranate ‘Kara Bala Miursal’ (Punica granatum) is a rare and highly sought-after variety known for its deep, dark red to nearly black arils, rich flavor, and exceptional sweetness. Native to the mountainous regions of Central Asia, specifically Azerbaijan, this unique pomegranate variety is prized for its large fruit, high juice content, and bold, sweet-tart taste. The richly flavored fruit is the perfect palance of sweet and tart and is packed with antioxidants and nutrients. The tree is relatively low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and can adapt to a range of soil types, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to grow something both delicious and visually striking.

This variety is particularly prized for fresh eating, juicing, and culinary uses, adding a dramatic flair to salads, desserts, and beverages. The high antioxidant content and vitamin C levels make it a nutritious choice, promoting health benefits such as improved heart health and anti-inflammatory properties.

Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value

Fruits: The ‘Kara Bala Miursal’ pomegranate produces large, round fruits with thick, leathery skin that is bright red on the outside. Inside, the arils (seeds) are a dark red to nearly black, offering a sweet, tangy flavor. The fruit is not only delicious but also loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making it highly nutritious. The juice is vibrant and rich in flavor, ideal for fresh consumption, juicing, or adding to salads and desserts.

Foliage: The tree features glossy, lance-shaped green leaves that provide an ornamental appeal throughout the growing season. It also produces beautiful, vibrant red-orange flowers that attract pollinators.

Growth Habit: The ‘Kara Bala Miursal’ is a deciduous, shrubby tree that can grow up to 10-15 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for small gardens or container growing.

Culinary and Ornamental Uses

The dark, juicy arils of the Kara Bala Miursal pomegranate are perfect for fresh eating, juicing, or adding to salads, yogurt, and desserts. The high juice content makes it an excellent choice for homemade pomegranate juice or syrup. In addition to its culinary uses, the tree itself is highly ornamental, with its striking flowers and lush green foliage adding beauty to any garden or landscape.