Pomegranate

Hicaz Pomegranate is a registered variety developed by the Batı Akdeniz Agricultural Research Institute (BATEM) in Antalya and is the most popular pomegranate type in both the domestic and international markets. A large portion of Turkey’s pomegranate exports consists of Hicaz pomegranates. It is a late-season variety, typically harvested between October 5 and 25, depending on the region and climate conditions. The fruit is highly suitable for storage, remaining in good condition for up to 6 months under proper conditions. Trees can reach commercial yield as early as their 3rd year, depending on soil and care practices. The fruit is large and heavy, with a red peel and dark red arils (seeds). Its juice yield is 48.91%, and its aril yield is 50%. The seeds are medium-hard, and the average productivity exceeds 41 kg per tree. It offers excellent eating quality and is suitable for both fresh consumption and industrial processing. Today, about 85% of the pomegranates grown in Turkey are of the Hicaz variety, making it the dominant cultivar in Turkish pomegranate production and exports.

The Wonderful pomegranate variety, which began to be trialed in Turkey after the 2000s, now accounts for about 8% of total national production. This variety produces medium to large-sized fruits with a dark red skin. Its arils are large and slightly tangy, giving it a distinctive flavor that is well-known and highly demanded in international markets. However, its storage life is shorter compared to the Hicaz pomegranate, making it less durable for long-term storage.