The kiwifruit, species Actinidia deliciosa,  is a fruit bearing woody vine of the genus Actinidia. Its birth place is China. Kiwifruit plants are dioecious, (male or female), with only the female plant bearing fruits. To be pollinated the female needs close by a male plant. However, one male plant will be sufficient for up to eight female vines. It prefers a well-drained soil rich in organic matter and a pH of 5 – 6.5.

A sunny location and some type of trellising system to grow and spread are necessary. Most temperate climates with adequate summer heat are suitable. Vines require heavy pruning and fruit is borne on one-year or older canes, but production declines as each cane ages. Canes should be pruned off and replaced after their third year. The plant needs a long growing season of frost-free days.

The leaves of the kiwi vine are large, deep green, leathery, oval and 15 to 25 cm in diameter. Young leaves are coated with red hairs, while mature leaves are hairless on the upper surface. The flowering period extends over several weeks. Flowers are large, 3 to 5 cm in diameter, colored cream-white and lightly fragrant.

Kiwi Fruit and Uses

The most common shape of the fruit is oval, about 5-8 cm long and 4.5-5.5 cm diameter. It has a fibrous, green-brown skin outside and a bright green or golden flesh with ray like rows of small, black, edible seeds, a soft fleshy texture and a resembling that of a mixed fruit salad. A new cultivar Actinidia chinensis or Gold Kiwifruit has yellow flesh it is sweeter, less acidic flavor of tropical fruit salad.

Kiwifruit can be eaten whole, including the skin or cut in half and scoop out the flesh or peeled and sliced. Kiwifruit is a rich source of vitamin C, potassium; slightly less than that of a banana. Also contains vitamins A and E, high level of dietary fiber and antioxidants. It is also rich in the protein-dissolving enzyme actinidin which makes raw kiwifruit unsuitable for use in or dairy or desserts containing milk products.

Kiwi Fruit propagation methods

Plant propagation is by budding seedlings or most easily using softwood cuttings. Kiwi Fruit, Actinidia deliciosa, is a member of the family Actinidiaceae the genus Actinidia Lindl..
,em>Kiwi Fruit, actinidia deliciosa

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