Actinidia chinensis

Actinidia chinensis is a self-fertile variety of kiwi, which can bear fruit on its own, without the presence of another kiwi plant nearby. It is a wise choice for a small-sized garden. Its vigorous liana is both fruit-bearing and decorative. It quickly produces generous quantities of large fruits on voluble stems that can reach lengths of 7 to 8m (23 to 26ft). In May-June, its beautiful white flowers are pleasantly scented. The sweet and juicy fruits, with green flesh, ripen in late October-early November. Plant in a warm, sunny location, in rich and moist soil, preferably non-calcareous.

It is a recent French horticultural creation, which produces larger fruits than the female variety 'Hayward', widely planted in gardens. Its ancestor, Actinidia chinensis or A. deliciosa, also known as Chinese gooseberry, yang tao, or vegetable mouse, belongs to the Actinidiaceae family. Originating from China, the kiwi is a vigorous climbing liana, capable of growing up to 3m (10ft) per year under favourable conditions. This climbing plant must be trained on a solid support, such as a wall with sturdy wires, a trellis, a pergola, a tree trunk, or a fence. It usually requires pruning to control its growth.

The kiwi is very hardy, down to approximately -15°C (5°F). However, it is sensitive to late frosts: its buds freeze at -5°C (23°F). Its foliage is deciduous, falling off in winter and reappearing in spring. The stems bear large, ovate and entire leaves, dark matte green on top, lighter underneath, covered by small red hairs.

The first significant harvest appears as early as the third year of cultivation, after a spring flowering in clusters of flowers on the previous year's branches. The fragrant flowers with wide petals are cream-white with numerous yellow stamens.

Kiwi is rich in vitamin C, fibre, and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

The harvest takes place around November, before the frost.