AKTINIDIA

Actinidia is a perennial decorative-fruiting vine growing up to 8–12 meters tall, which quickly reaches full maturity and begins bearing fruit in the third–fourth year after planting. The plant is dioecious, so for successful fruiting, at least one male and several female bushes must be planted (recommended ratio: 5–6 females to 2 males). The leaves have an elongated elliptical shape, are glossy dark green, and the flowers are white with dark purple stamens and possess a strong aroma. After flowering, fruits appear that resemble miniature kiwis: smooth skin of a light green shade, tender flesh that is sour-sweet with a slight pineapple aftertaste.

Fruits have a medium size – 14–16 grams, round or slightly cylindrical in shape. They ripen in mid-September and can be used both fresh and for making jams, jellies, and desserts. Inside the fruit is soft red-purple flesh with an aroma and sweet taste; the vitamin C content is approximately ten times that of a lemon.

Actinidia requires support for growing: an arch, trellis, or tying to a surface, as the plant is climbing. The plant is cold-hardy down to –25 °C and can grow in areas with a moderate climate. Yield in mature age reaches 10–20 kg/bush, and with proper care and sufficient pollinators, it can exceed 25 kg. Thanks to its undemanding nature and high yield, actinidia is an excellent choice both for gardeners and commercial fruit producers.