- A female variety of kiwi. Actinidia deliciosa is a dioecious plant – both male and female plants are needed for fruiting. For good pollination and fruiting, it is recommended to plant one male plant for every 3-8 female plants. It requires pollinators such as ‘Atlas’ or ‘Tomuri’.
- It blooms in May and June with creamy white flowers.
- The fruit is oval in shape and has a thin brown skin. The fruit flesh is juicy with a soft and creamy consistency. The flavor is sweet, less acidic than that of green kiwi. The weight of a ripe fruit is 70-150 g, depending on the climate and growing conditions; the average weight is around 100 g.
- The first ripe fruit appears in early September. Keep in mind that it may take several years for the plant to begin bearing fruit (usually 3-5 years).
- Growing on supports, arbor, or pergolas is recommended.
- It doesn’t require special soil and is resistant to diseases and pests.
- It’s frost-resistant to -20°C, but it’s recommended to protect the plant during the first 2-3 years of cultivation.