Zhéri Pomegranate

The Zhéri pomegranate is a traditional Moroccan variety recognized for its exceptional sweetness, soft seeds, and bright red arils. It is mainly cultivated in warm and dry regions, where it produces high-quality fruits used for fresh consumption, juice, and artisanal syrup production.

Type and Characteristics:

• Scientific name: Punica granatum L
• Variety name: Zhéri
• Fruit size : Medium to large
• Shape : Round, slightly flattened
• Skin color: Bright red to deep pink
• Aril color: Clear red, very juicy, soft seeds
• Taste profile: Very sweet, low acidity, fragrant aroma
• Seeds : Soft and edible
• Harvest period: September – October
• Uses: Fresh consumption, juice, syrup, and traditional preparations

Region of Cultivation :

Main regions: Grown in central and southern Morocco — notably in Beni Mellal, Marrakech, Haouz, and sometimes Tafilalet.

Prefers sunny plains and light soils with access to irrigation.

Soil Requirements:

• Deep, well-drained loamy or sandy-loam soils, fertile and slightly calcareous
• Ph 6.0–8.0 suitable
• Sensitive to waterlogging and high salinity

Climate and Growing Conditions :

• Climate: Arid to semi-arid Mediterranean
• Temperature: Thrives in warm zones (25–38°C during fruiting)
• Rainfall: 250–400 mm/year; irrigation recommended
• Sunlight: Full sun required for color and sugar development
• Frost: Sensitive during early flowering and fruit set

The Zhéri pomegranate is a highly sweet and juicy Moroccan variety that thrives in warm, semiarid climates on well-drained, fertile soils. With its bright color, soft seeds, and excellent sugar content, Zhéri is among the most appreciated varieties for fresh consumption and juice production, representing the southern terroir of Moroccan pomegranates.