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Kiwiberry

Actinidia arguta
Varieties to choose from
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New in Autumn 2002 this species has been in cultivation in the USA since the early 1900's, but has escaped attention here for many years. It is a native of China, Korea, Siberia and Japan. Produced in orchards in a way similar to the common 'Hayward' kiwifruit, but only on a small scale as yet. The Kiwiberry is set to take off in Australian gardens both on the vine and on the plate!

Landscape Value

Ideal over a pergola or as a stand alone specimen in any garden can be created by planting like a pillar-rose on an umbrella system.

Nutritional Value

High in Vitamin C and dietary fibre with good levels of Vitamin E and antioxidants.

How to Eat

Off the plant and in the mouth - no cutting no spoons! There are no hairs so the Kiwiberry can be eaten skin and all like a grape. Can be used anywhere the traditional kiwifruit is used. Adds life to salads and desserts.

Generic Fruiting Time

J F M A M J J A S O N D

Growing

Sun

Will tolerate shade but prefers full sun.

Wind

Provide protection from wind.

Climate

Very cold hardy plant but fruits best in full sun conditions.

Soil

Well-drained fertile soil.

Fertiliser

Fertilise in spring with a balanced fertiliser.

Pruning

Summer Pruning: Cut back excess growth after the fruit has formed to prevent tangling. Winter Pruning: Males

Male Flower

Female Flower

... read more about pruning

Pests

Plants are relatively free from problems. One odd problem is the fact that the trunks have a catnip-like aroma which cats love to rub against. When plants are small, this can be a problem as they can rub off any new shoots which emerge in the spring. Garden snails can also be a problem on younger plantings. Scale insects can damage if populations build up too extensively.

Hardiness

Hardy to -5°C

Special Conditions

The spring growth is susceptible to frost damage so protect with frost cloth.

 


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