Arctic Kiwi
Far less vegetatively vigorous and management intensive than kiwiberries (Actinidia arguta), the arctic kiwi (A. kolomikta) is an excellent option for backyard and garden plantings, producing lovely crops of sweet and tender smooth-skinned fruits with very little acidity. Native to northern China, eastern Siberia, and the Korean peninsula, arctic kiwis are exceptionally cold-hardy, able to survive temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) when dormant. The species has long been prized for its ornamental value; but note that the delicate leaves of arctic kiwi can be sensitive to sun-scalding, so it is best to grow the plants under full to partial shade conditions. Breaking bud and flowering as much as 2-3 weeks before kiwiberries, arctic kiwis can also be negatively affected by late spring frosts if not sited correctly. As with kiwiberries, trellising is required, as is the planting of male (pollenizing) varieties in proximity to female (fruiting) vines.
USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 3a – 7b
