Climate Fit: Excellent in 8–9; gets enough chill (150–200 hrs) and thrives in summer heat.
Best For: People who want darker fruit with a more unique, “refreshing, mildly tart” taste.
Note: Needs heat to fully sweeten — your zones are good for that.
Climate Fit: Does very well in Zones 8–9, but it’s more valued for cold hardiness (survives down to ~0°F).
Best For: Growers who want reliable crops even if a freak freeze hits.
Note: Harder seeds, so less “soft-seed eating” but good for juice.
Climate Fit: Classic California commercial variety; thrives in Zones 8–9 if summers are long and hot.
Best For: The “standard” pomegranate experience — sweet-tart juice and deep red fruit.
Note: Can be less flavorful if summers are short or mild, but your zones usually give enough heat.
Climate Fit: One of the top-tasting varieties in warm zones. Grows very well in 8–9 with consistent sweetness and productivity.
Best For: Fresh eating — soft seeds and rich, sweet-wine-like flavor.
Note: Needs full sun and warmth for peak flavor. Excellent backyard choice.
Climate Fit: Very adaptable; survives colder zones but also produces well in Zones 8–9.
Best For: Reliable yields; fruit is bright red with sweet-tart juice.
Note: Seeds are usually on the harder side. Flavor can vary (sweet if fully ripe, tart if not).
For fresh eating: Parfianka (soft seeds, best flavor) and Sharp Velvet (unique dark taste).
For juicing / reliable crops: Wonderful (classic juice) and Salavatski (hardy & productive).
For all-around use / backup in colder pockets: Afganski and Salavatski are safest bets.
👉 If you want just two varieties for Zones 8–9, I’d plant Parfianka (for taste) + Wonderful (for classic production).
If you want diversity, add Sharp Velvet for color/taste novelty, and Salavatski or Afganski as insurance against unusual cold.