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Key characteristics

Family: Lythraceae
Height: 9 to 10 feet
Width: 6 to 7 feet
Flower color: Double flowers with variegated salmon, orange, and cream petals
Foliage color: Bright green leaves; golden yellow in fall
Bloom time: Late spring to mid-summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; prefers well-draining soil and tolerates pruning
Growing zone: USDA Zone 7, (down to 5°F)
Wildlife: Bees and other pollinators, though this variety does not produce edible fruit

Shrubs

Punica granatum 'California Sunset'

California Sunset Pomegranate

Punica granatum 'California Sunset' is a deciduous shrub or small tree renowned for its vibrant, bi-colored flowers and ornamental appeal. Blooming from late spring through summer, the plant produces trumpet-shaped blooms in shades of orange and yellow, often with streaks or a marbled effect that resemble the colors of a sunset.

This cultivar was developed to enhance the ornamental qualities of the traditional pomegranate, focusing on its unique floral display and aesthetic value.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Late spring to mid-summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Mediterranean Gardens
Pollinator Gardens
Cottage Gardens

Companion plants

Aster · Firethorn · Sneezeweed · Blue grama grass · Hebe · Manzanita

Design tip

Give ‘California Sunset’ a spot where its unusual flowers can be easily seen and appreciated. The mix of salmon, orange, and cream creates a warm, sunset-like display through summer, while golden fall foliage brings another season of color after flowering ends.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)