Hardy Kiwi Bingo (female) - Actinidia arguta

The Actinidia arguta 'Bingo' is a female variety of kiwai or Siberian kiwi that is characterised by an incredible pineapple taste. The pink, smooth and thin skin of its fruit allows it to be eaten whole. Extremely flavorful and melting in the mouth, the yellow, juicy flesh, with a sweet and sugary flavor, is a delight during the harvest, from September to October. This variety, not self-fertile, requires the presence of a male plant nearby for pollination. This new variety is very hardy and productive. Its dark pink mini-kiwis measure about 3 cm (1in) long. The voluble branches of Siberian kiwis need support: trellis, pergola, arbor or stretched wires.

In the Kiwi category, there is the Ornamental Kiwi (Actinidia kolomikta), the Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis or deliciosa) with fuzzy skin, and the Kiwai (Actinidia arguta) with smooth skin, also known as Siberian Kiwi or Summer Kiwi. All three belong to the Actinidiaceae family. The female Kiwi arguta 'Bingo' is a new Polish cultivar, hybrid between Actinidia purpurna 'Sadowa' and Actinidia arguta, which produces long voluble branches that can reach 4 to 6 m (13 to 20ft) in length. Very hardy down to -25°C. Deciduous foliage. The branches bear 8 to 10 cm (3 to 4in) long, heart-shaped green leaves. In June-July, at the axils of the leaves, fragrant and nectariferous flowers appear, cream-white in colour with purple anthers, grouped in threes.

The elongated fruits of 'Bingo', 2 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter and 3 to 4 cm (1 to 2in) long, with smooth and thin skin, reach maturity in September-October. They can be stored for one to two weeks after picking. Its yellow flesh, sweet, fragrant and slightly acidic, reminiscent of the taste of pineapple. It is rich in calcium and vitamin C. It is consumed whole. Fruit production begins 2 to 3 years after planting. The Kiwi arguta 'Bingo' is not a self-fertile variety, so it needs a male plant nearby. The kiwi arguta Weikii (male) will be an excellent pollinator. Like the classic Kiwi, one male plant can pollinate 4 to 5 female plants.

In addition to its fruit, its luxuriant foliage, fragrant flowers and generous branches make the Kiwai ornamental and useful in the garden. This plant needs to be trained on a solid support such as stretched wires on a frame, trellis, arbor, pergola or fence. It prefers light, fresh, non-calcareous soil and a sunny exposure.

The fruits of the Kiwi arguta Bingo are harvested from September to October. It is pleasant to consume and enjoy the fruits in the garden. They also keep very well for about two weeks in the refrigerator. Yield can reach up to 40 to 50 kg per plant. The Kiwai can be eaten fresh, its flavour is refreshing and melting, a true delight. It can be enjoyed in pies, fruit salads, dairy desserts, jams, jellies, compotes, fruit juices, cocktails. As a sweet vegetable, it can tenderly accompany white meat dishes (poultry, veal, pork, etc.).