Protected Series:
Zone: 5SMOOTH ISSAI KIWI
Actinidia arguta 'Issai' is commonly referred to as Smooth Issai Kiwi. This hermaphroditic cultivar (perfect flowers) is noteworthy for not needing a male pollinator for fruit production (self-pollinates). It is hardy to Zone 5 with attractive foliage and small, sweet, edible kiwi fruit. Broad, ovate to elliptic, deep green leaves emerge in spring with fragrant, greenish-white flowers that bloom in June. Grape-sized, smooth-skinned delicious kiwi fruit follow in September and October. Fruit typically grow to only 1.5 inches long. They are similar in taste but sweeter than the much larger kiwi fruits sold in grocery stores. Fruits do not need to be peeled - they can be eaten skin and all like a grape.
Smooth Issai Kiwi thrives in full sun to partial shade in organically rich, evenly moist, well-drained soils.
| PLANT | SIZE | TYPE | GALENA | ADD'L | DIG | SOON |
Current inventory will be listed above this line. This plant will not be in the cart if there is no Galena stock listed. Contact Sales Rep for details. | Click for Availability column key & information.
To help this plant settle in and thrive, we recommend these standard planting practices: Plant in deep, fertile, well-draining soil, selecting a location that provides full sun to partial shade, preferably with some protection from strong winds. Kiwis are vigorous plants that require consistent moisture to remain healthy and productive, so ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Because these plants have extensive root systems and significant foliage, they require substantial space and a very sturdy support system, such as a heavy-duty trellis or arbor, to accommodate their rapid growth.
Pruning is essential for kiwi fruit production, as fruit is typically produced on current-season growth that arises from one-year-old wood. Prune in late winter while the plant is dormant to remove excess growth and manage the size of the vine and perform supplemental pruning during the growing season to prevent overcrowding.
AVAILABLE VARIETIES:
No other plants currently in stock for this genus.