Kiwi Super Issaï - Actinidia arguta (self fertile)

The Actinidia arguta 'Super Issaï' is an improvement of the well-known variety 'Issaï'. Like Issaï, it is the only variety of this species that is self-fertile. A single plant produces small lemon-green kiwis, albeit small in size (5 to 6 grams), but so delicious and easy to eat whole with the skin that we forget about this detail. Sweeter and more vitamin-rich than the kiwi, the kiwai is energising and refreshing. Like a pure indulgence, it is best enjoyed fresh when harvested, but it is also appreciated as an ingredient in a wide range of sweet or savoury recipes. With a very high yield, the Super Issaï ripens around mid-September and the harvests continue until mid-October. In addition to its fruiting qualities, this climbing plant with its beautiful bright green heart-shaped foliage can adorn a pergola, trellis, or arbour.

In the kiwi category, there are the Ornamental Kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta), the Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis or deliciosa) with its fuzzy skin, and the Kiwai (Actinidia arguta) with its smooth skin, also known as Siberian Kiwi, Mini-kiwi, or Summer Kiwi. All three belong to the Actinidiaceae family. The Kiwai is native to Asia and produces long climbing branches that can reach 4 to 6 metres in length. Very hardy down to -20°C. Deciduous foliage. The branches bear 8 to 10 cm long heart-shaped green leaves. In June-July, fragrant and melliferous cream-white flowers with purple anthers appear in the axils of the leaves, grouped in threes.

The Actinidia arguta 'Super Issaï' has slightly less vigorous growth than other varieties of arguta. It can reach 3 to 4 metres in height. The elongated fruits, 1 to 2 cm in diameter and 2 to 4 cm in length, have a smooth and thin green skin and reach maturity in September-October. The green flesh is very sweet, fruity, and slightly acidic, reminiscent of an exotic taste. They can be stored for one to two weeks after harvesting. Rich in calcium and vitamin C, they are consumed whole. Fruit production begins 2 to 3 years after planting. The Actinidia arguta 'Super Issaï' is self-fertile. Both male and female flowers are present on the plant, so it does not need a partner nearby to bear fruit. However, if a male plant, such as Kiwai Prince Jumbo or Kiwai Nostino, is nearby, the production will be improved.

In addition to its fruiting qualities, the lush foliage, fragrant flowers, and generous branches of the Kiwai provide ornamental value in the garden. This plant needs to be trained on a sturdy support such as wires stretched on a frame, a trellis, an arbour, or a fence. It prefers light, fresh, non-limestone soil and a sunny exposure.

The fruits of the Actinidia arguta 'Super Issaï' ripen around mid-September and continue into October. It is enjoyable to consume and savour the fruits as they are when harvested. They can also be stored for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. The yield can reach up to 30 to 40 kg per plant. The Kiwai can be eaten fresh, its flavour is refreshing and melting, a true delight. It can be used in tarts, fruit salads, dairy desserts, jams, jellies, compotes, fruit juices, and cocktails. As a sweet vegetable, it can tenderly accompany white meat dishes (poultry, veal, pork...).