Actinidia
( ak - tin - NID - ee - uh )
Actinidia Species and Varietals
The genus Actinidia is the type species member of the plant family Actinidiaceae, and has between 40 and 60 species. Actinidia species can be fruiting or non-fruiting. The non-fruiting, male varieties usually have the most impressive foliage, while female varieties have great-tasting fruit that has a range of size and color. Keep in mind that female varieties usually need a male nearby to successfully pollinate and produce fruit. The best growing zones for Actinidia vary depending on the species; for more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Actinidia arguta (Darae, Hardy Kiwi, Arctic Kiwi, Baby Kiwi, Cocktail Kiwi, Dessert Kiwi, Grape Kiwi, Hardy Kiwifruit, Kiwi Berry, Northern Kiwi, Siberian Gooseberry, Siberian Kiwi)
This species is native to Japan, Korea, northern China, and Russia, and produces hairless fruits that can be eaten whole. 'Geneva', MSU', 'Weiki', 'Jumbo Verde', Young leaves can also be eaten. Grows best in zones A1-A3, 1-10, 12, and 14-24.
This species is native to Japan, Korea, northern China, and Russia, and produces hairless fruits that can be eaten whole. 'Geneva', MSU', 'Weiki', 'Jumbo Verde', Young leaves can also be eaten. Grows best in zones A1-A3, 1-10, 12, and 14-24.
Actinidia chinensis (Golden Kiwifruit) This species is closely related to Actinidia deliciosa (though fruit is sweeter and more aromatic), and fruit color can vary from lime green to gold. Fruits are about the size of a chicken egg. Variety 'EnzaRed' has a red iris, or ring, around the center of the interior of the fruit. Other commercially grown varieties include 'Hort16A' (ZespriGold, SunGold), and 'Zesy002'. |
Actinidia deliciosa (Fuzzy Kiwifruit, Chinese Gooseberry Vine)
Grows best in zones 4-9 and 12-24 and native to southern China. This plant can take about five years to begin flowering after being planted and can reach 30 feet in length at maturity. Leaves are dark green on top, velvety white underneath. New leaves often have red fuzz. White-cream flowers bloom in spring followed by brown-skinned, green-fleshed fruit about the size and shape of an egg. Male pollinators and female fruiting varieties are outlined below.
Grows best in zones 4-9 and 12-24 and native to southern China. This plant can take about five years to begin flowering after being planted and can reach 30 feet in length at maturity. Leaves are dark green on top, velvety white underneath. New leaves often have red fuzz. White-cream flowers bloom in spring followed by brown-skinned, green-fleshed fruit about the size and shape of an egg. Male pollinators and female fruiting varieties are outlined below.
Actinidia kolomikta (Actinidia maloides) (Arctic Beauty, Kolomikta, Variegated-Leaf Hardy Kiwi, Super-Hardy Kiwi, Miyamatatabi) Native to eastern Asia, this vine grows rapidly to 15 feet or more, and has heart-shaped profuse foliage. Leaves on the plant can be green, white, or green variegated with white, pink or red. Leaf colors are better in shade or cooler weather. Non-fruiting males have the best foliage, fruiting females produce small green fruits. The best female variety is 'September Sun', as it is the best combination of foliage and fruit in this species. Zones A1-A3, 1-9 and 14-17. These plants can also be grown indoors as houseplants. |
Actinidia pilosula This species is native to China, where its fruit is also commonly eaten. Young foliage commonly has white tips and dark red margins appear on all leaves. Flowers bloom May through June, and these vines reach just under 25 feet long. Most specimens of this species are found in the wild. |
Actinidia polygama (Silver Vine, Matatabi, Cat Powder) This vine is native to mountainous areas in Japan, China and Korea. Leaves are green, with silver-white tips when young. Cats love this vine; they chew the leaves and roll around in them, which can cause damage to the plant. Non-fruiting. Zones A1-A3, 1-9 and 14-17. |
Actinidia tetramera These vines are native to central China and are vigorous climbers that can reach 26 feet tall at maturity. This species is valued for its ornamental value, and prefers to be planted in partial shade to sun. Actinidia tetramera maloides has earned the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. |
Caring for Actinidia
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Pages 134, 392-393, Actinidia
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