Pomegranates are known for their vibrant color, sweet-tart flavor, and numerous health benefits. India is one of the largest producers of pomegranates, and several varieties are cultivated across the country. Here, we explore some of the most notable pomegranate varieties in India, including their origins, history, where they are found, availability, and unique properties.
Contents
1. Bhagwa
- Origin: Maharashtra, India
- History: Developed through selective breeding for its superior quality and commercial viability.
- Found in: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Gujarat
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from July to October
- Unique Property: Known for its bright red arils, sweet flavor, and soft seeds. It has a high juice content and is resistant to fruit cracking.
2. Ganesh
- Origin: Maharashtra, India
- History: Developed by the Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth in Rahuri, Maharashtra.
- Found in: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Gujarat
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from September to February
- Unique Property: Known for its light pink arils, sweet-tart flavor, and soft seeds. It is one of the most popular varieties for fresh consumption and juice production.
3. Arakta
- Origin: Maharashtra, India
- History: Bred for its deep red arils and high juice content.
- Found in: Maharashtra and Karnataka
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from September to December
- Unique Property: Known for its deep red arils, sweet flavor, and high antioxidant content. It is often used for juice production.
4. Mridula
- Origin: Maharashtra, India
- History: Developed for its improved sweetness and larger arils.
- Found in: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from August to December
- Unique Property: Known for its bright red arils, sweet taste, and high juice yield. It is popular for both fresh consumption and juicing.
5. Ruby
- Origin: Tamil Nadu, India
- History: Developed by the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University for its vibrant color and improved flavor.
- Found in: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from July to October
- Unique Property: Known for its deep red arils, sweet-tart flavor, and attractive appearance. It has a good shelf life and is often used in culinary dishes.
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6. Jalore Seedless
- Origin: Rajasthan, India
- History: Developed through selective breeding for its seedless nature and high sweetness.
- Found in: Rajasthan and Gujarat
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from October to January
- Unique Property: Known for its seedless arils, sweet flavor, and ease of consumption. It is highly sought after for fresh eating.
7. Kandhari
- Origin: Afghanistan, introduced to India
- History: Brought to India for its superior taste and medicinal properties.
- Found in: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Punjab
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from September to February
- Unique Property: Known for its large size, deep red arils, and sweet-tart flavor. It is often used in traditional medicine and culinary preparations.
8. Dholka
- Origin: Gujarat, India
- History: One of the oldest cultivated varieties in India, known for its unique flavor.
- Found in: Gujarat and Maharashtra
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from September to December
- Unique Property: Known for its light pink arils, sweet flavor, and medium-sized fruits. It is often used for fresh consumption and traditional recipes.
9. Bedana
- Origin: India
- History: An old variety known for its high sweetness and soft seeds.
- Found in: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from August to December
- Unique Property: Known for its light red arils, sweet taste, and soft seeds. It is popular for fresh consumption and juice production.
10. Muskat
- Origin: Gujarat, India
- History: Cultivated for its unique musky flavor and medicinal properties.
- Found in: Gujarat and Maharashtra
- Availability: Throughout the year, with peak season from September to December
- Unique Property: Known for its unique musky flavor, light pink arils, and high medicinal value. It is often used in traditional medicine.
Also, read: Different Types of Plums You Need to Know Now
Nutrition Chart of Pomegranates
Pomegranates are not just delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a general nutritional profile of pomegranates per 100 grams:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 83 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18.7 g |
| Sugars | 13.7 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.0 g |
| Protein | 1.7 g |
| Fat | 1.2 g |
| Vitamin A | 0 µg |
| Vitamin C | 10.2 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.6 mg |
| Vitamin K | 16.4 µg |
| Potassium | 236 mg |
| Magnesium | 12 mg |
| Phosphorus | 36 mg |
| Folate | 38 µg |
| Calcium | 10 mg |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
| Zinc | 0.4 mg |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.07 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.05 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.29 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.07 mg |
