Lasunka

Actinidia 'Laskunka' is a powerful woody vine obtained by cross-breeding Actinidia 'purpurea' with Actinidia 'Argut' at the Kyiv National Botanical Garden. The plant grows quickly, has high yields and frost resistance up to -35 °C, making it suitable for cultivation in various climatic conditions. It blooms at the end of June–early July with large white or pink flowers with a scent reminiscent of jasmine.

The fruits of 'Laskunka' have an elongated blunt-egg shape, juicy and tender flesh of light-purple color. Average fruit weight – 8–12 grams, and yield from one plant can reach 10–12 kilograms. Fruits ripen in September, do not drop off and have a pleasant sweet-and-sour taste. They are used in fresh, dried, with sugar or as an ingredient for jam, compote, wine and other culinary products.

For successful cultivation of 'Laskunka' choose a sunny or semi-shaded spot on light loose soil. Distance between plants is recommended to be at least 3 m, and for seedlings it is important to provide protection from domestic cats during the first three years. The plant requires regular watering and feeding with complex mineral fertilizers, especially in spring and summer. Pruning helps increase yield, and winter protection helps preserve plant health.