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 the UK
- 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
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