Actinidia arguta (f/F)
hardy kiwi
A very vigorous deciduous climber reaching many meters in length. This hardy kiwi has leathery green leaves and white flowers which, for pollinated female flowers, may become smooth-skinned green fruits. These are smaller but sweeter than the varities sold in supermarkets
Size
Ultimate height
8–12 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Actinidiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Climbing
- Genus
Actinidia are vigorous, mostly deciduous, twining climbers with simple ovate leaves which are variegated in some species. Small cup-shaped flowers may be followed on female or hermaphrodite plants by edible fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China, Japan, Korea
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in deep, fertile, acid to neutral soil, in a sheltered position - ideally against a wall and trained as an espalier. For more advice see kiwi cultivation. Both a male and female are needed for fruit
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Climber and wall shrubs
- Edible fruit
Pruning
Requires regular pruning to keep under control. For more advice see kiwi cultivation
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus and phytophthora root rot
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.