Actinidia arguta aka Baby Kiwi

Taxonomy

Genus Actinidia Family Actinidiaceae Order Ericales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Actinidia arguta, commonly known as the hardy kiwi, is a perennial vine that originates from Japan, Korea, Northern China, and the Russian Far East. This deciduous and vigorous twining woody climber features ovate leaves and small cream-white female flowers. In order to produce edible pale red fruits in the autumn, it requires either a male or self-fertile pollination partner. To ensure proper ripening of the fruits, a sunny and sheltered position is necessary. Unlike its grocery store counterpart, Actinidia deliciosa, which is only hardy to USDA plant hardiness zone 8, the hardy kiwi is much more cold-tolerant and can thrive in zones 3, 4, or 5, and even up to zones 8 or 9 depending on the variety. The fruit of the hardy kiwi is smaller, approximately the size of a large grape, and can be consumed whole without the need for peeling. While its delicious fruit is a notable feature, the hardy kiwi is also valued for its attractive heart-shaped foliage. It is a fast-growing and vigorous vine that can be trained on trellises, fences, pergolas, and other structures, without posing a significant invasive threat. Flowering in spring and fruiting in fall, most hardy kiwi varieties are dioecious, requiring the presence of a male plant for pollination. However, there is one self-pollinating variety that can produce fruit independently.

Common names

Baby Kiwi, Vine Pear, Bower Actinidia, Tara Vine

How to care for Baby Kiwi

Difficulty

Baby Kiwi presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Baby Kiwi should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Baby Kiwi loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Baby Kiwi thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Bower Actinidia.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Region of origin

Baby Kiwi’s native range is E. Asia - China, Japan.

More info:
Wikipedia

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More Species in Actinidia Genus

Actinidia

Actinidia hypoleuca

Actinidia kolomikta Arctic Beauty Kiwi

Actinidia tetramera

Actinidia henryi

Actinidia chinensis Kiwi

Actinidia sabiifolia

Actinidia rubus

Actinidia holotricha

Actinidia strigosa