Ounk Hmam Rouge Pomegranate

The Ounk Hmam Rouge de Marrakech is a local Moroccan pomegranate variety well known for its intense red color, high juice content, and refreshing sweet-acidic balance. Cultivated primarily in the Marrakech–Haouz region, it benefits from the area’s warm, dry climate, producing fruits of excellent visual and gustatory quality.

Type and Characteristics:

• Scientific name: Punica granatum L.
• Variety name: Ounk Hmam Rouge.
• Fruit size : Medium to large
• Shape : Round to slightly elongated
• Skin color: Bright to dark red
• Aril color: Deep red, juicy, firm
• Taste profile: Sweet with moderate acidity, refreshing and balanced
• Seeds : Medium hardness
• Harvest period: Late September -October
• Uses: Fresh consumption, juice, local processing Region of Cultivation :

Main region: Marrakech–Haouz plain and surrounding areas (Chichaoua, El Kelaa des Sraghna)

The region offers warm temperatures, low humidity, and good irrigation potential from traditional khettaras and modern systems.

Soil Requirements:

• Deep, well-drained sandy-loam or loamy soils, fertile and moderately calcareous
• Tolerates slightly alkaline conditions
• Optimal pH : 0–8.0

Climate and Growing Conditions :

• Climate: Semi-arid Mediterranean
• Temperature : Optimal 25–38°C during fruiting
• Rainfall : 250–400 mm/year, irrigation essential
• Sunlight: Full sun exposure required for bright color and sweetness
• Frost : Sensitive during flowering

The Ounk Hmam Rouge de Marrakech is a distinguished Moroccan pomegranate recognized for its deep red color, juicy texture, and balanced sweetness. Thriving in the warm, semi-arid plains of Marrakech–Haouz, it grows best in deep, well-drained loamy soils under full sunlight. Its high visual appeal and good flavor balance make it ideal for fresh markets and juice production, reflecting the strong pomegranate-growing tradition of southern Morocco.