Kiwi Plant Information and Variety Selection

Kiwi Plant information - Kiwi Plant Physiology

Kiwi plants (Actinidia spp.) are deciduous, woody vines that thrive in temperate climates, typically growing in areas with mild winters and long, warm summers. However, we need at least 700-800 chilling hours. The genus Actinidia contains 50 species, and kiwi is considered one of the most recently domesticated crop species. The vines can grow up to 10 meters (33 ft) in length, requiring a sturdy support structure for optimal growth and fruit production. The plants have large, heart-shaped leaves covered in fine hairs, which help protect them from excessive sunlight and moisture loss. Kiwi plants are dioecious, meaning they have male and female plants, and both are necessary for cross-pollination and fruit production (except for certain self-fertile varieties).

The root system of the kiwi plant is fibrous and extensive but usually relatively shallow. Kiwi plants can produce significant vegetative growth annually. The plant's flowers are small, white to cream-colored, and typically bloom in late spring. Pollination is primarily carried out by bees (and other insects), but wind can also aid the process. Successful pollination is crucial for fruit set and development. The fruit develops over four months, with harvest typically occurring in mid-autumn. Kiwi fruits are classified as berries. They are usually oval, 5-8 cm (0.16-0.26 ft), and about 4.5 - 5.5 cm (0.15-0.18 ft) in diameter, 60-150 grams (2.1-5.3 oz) each with an outer skin that can be smooth or fuzzy, and containing numerous tiny seeds surrounded by juicy, flavorful green or golden flesh (depending the variety). The kiwi plant starts producing fruits 2-3 years after planting and can give good yields for around 30-40 years. It can reach maximum production in the 10th or the 12th year. At that time, farmers may cut the plants from the base of the trunk to rejuvenate or replant their crops.

Kiwi Varieties – How to Choose the Best Kiwi Variety

Kiwi is a fruit that has gained worldwide popularity due to its unique flavor, high nutritional content, and versatility. Originally native to China, Kiwi is now grown in various parts of the world, including New Zealand, Italy, Greece, and the United States. The most common and commercially important varieties are categorized into three main types:

the fuzzy kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa),
the hardy kiwifruit (Actinidia arguta), and
the golden kiwifruit (Actinidia chinensis)

Each type of kiwi has its unique characteristics and growing requirements, making them suitable for different climates and markets. A grower needs to do his/her own research and consult a local agronomist and plant nursery before selecting and planting a variety suitable for the regional climate and field. Of course, the target market will also play a vital role in choosing the variety.

Fuzzy Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa)

Hayward

The Hayward (the Chinese gooseberry variety) is the most widely cultivated type of fuzzy kiwi for commercial production globally. It is characterized by its brown, fuzzy skin and bright green flesh. The fruit is large, oval (slightly cylindrical), and has a sweet (high sugar content), tangy flavor with a high vitamin C content.

Hayward Kiwi requires a temperate climate with a long growing season and mild winters. It is sensitive to frost, particularly in the spring when the flowers bloom. The vines are vigorous and require a sturdy support structure and regular pruning to manage growth and fruit production. When using it as your main commercial variety, you need to remember that Hayward is not self-fertile and plant a compatible pollinizer male variety in the field to produce fruits. Good matching male kiwi varieties for pollinating Hayward are Atlas, Tomuri/ Tomori, Matau, and Chieftain.

Important note

Please ensure both the male and female kiwi plants belong to the same species (Actinidia deliciosa). Hardy kiwis (Actinidia arguta) are different species and won't pollinate fuzzy kiwis.

The Hayward variety dominates the global market and is primarily grown in sub-tropical and Mediterranean areas (New Zealand, Italy, Chile, Greece, and California). It is preferred for its extended shelf life (it can be stored in optimum conditions for even up to 1 year after harvest) and transportability, making it ideal for export.

Abbott and Allison

These are other popular fuzzy kiwi varieties, but not as widespread as Hayward (they are pretty popular in India). Abbott and Allison kiwis are similar in appearance and taste but typically have a slightly earlier harvest time than Hayward. Allison can also be used as a pollinizer variety. Both varieties produce medium-sized fruits with a sweet flavor.

Another important green kiwi variety with superior quality and taste and increased popularity in Europe is the Italian Boerica variety. Saanichton and Bruno are two other varieties worth mentioning.

**Golden/Yellow Kiwi Varieties (*Actinidia chinensis***)

Hort16A (Zespri Gold)

Hort16A, marketed as Zespri Gold, is the most well-known golden kiwi variety. It is notable for its smooth (short silky hair), bronze skin and bright yellow flesh, which has a tropical, sweet flavor that differentiates it from the traditional green-fleshed varieties.

Golden kiwifruit generally requires similar climatic conditions to fuzzy kiwifruit but is slightly more tolerant of warmer temperatures. However, it is also more susceptible to diseases like Pseudomonas syringae, which can impact yield. Hort16A blooms four weeks ahead of Hayward. Some possible pollinizers for Hort16A are the Hortkiwi Meteor and Hortkiwi Sparkler.

The Zespri Gold variety has become increasingly popular due to its sweeter taste and visual appeal. It commands a premium price in the market and is primarily grown in New Zealand, with expanding cultivation in other regions such as Europe and China.

Jin Tao (Jintao) or Jingold

Jin Tao is another yellow kiwi variety gaining attention for its exceptional sweetness and flavor (in some cases, it is considered superior in taste to Hayward fruits). It is similar to Hort16A but often considered more robust and disease-resistant. This variety produces medium to large fruits and has a high sugar content, making it very attractive for fresh consumption. Jintao is a much earlier variety than Hayward.

**Red Kiwi (*Actinidia purpurea***)

Hongyang

Hongyang is the most cultivated and popular red kiwi variety, known for its smooth, red-brown skin and striking red flesh. It offers a sweet, tropical flavor and is rich in vitamins C and E and antioxidants. Hongyang kiwis are medium-sized and have a good shelf life, making them suitable for export. China is the leading producer and consumer, with growing interest in Asian, European, and North American markets. This variety appeals to health-conscious consumers and gourmet enthusiasts seeking unique and nutritious fruits, with opportunities for premium pricing in niche markets.

Another up-and-coming red variety is the Don Hon. Don Hon kiwis are smaller, snack-sized fruits that thrive in temperate climates and ripen in late summer. Popular in New Zealand and China, they are gaining international interest in Asia and Europe.

**Hardy Kiwifruit (*Actinidia arguta***)

Anna (Ananasnaya)

Anna, or Ananasnaya, is the most popular hardy kiwi variety, known for its smooth, edible skin and small, grape-sized fruits. The fruit is sweet and aromatic, reminiscent of tropical fruits.

Hardy kiwifruit is more cold-tolerant than its fuzzy and golden counterparts, making it suitable for regions with colder climates. It can withstand temperatures as low as -25°C (-13°F), allowing it to be cultivated in areas like the northeastern United States and parts of Canada.

While not as widely grown as fuzzy kiwi, hardy kiwi is gaining popularity in niche markets for its convenience as a snack fruit, requiring no peeling.

Issai

Issai is a self-fertile, hardy Kiwi variety, making it unique among most Kiwi types, which typically require male and female plants for pollination.

Issai produces smaller fruits than Anna but is appreciated for its ease of growth and maintenance, especially in home gardens.

The kiwi fruit industry is diverse and dynamic, with several important varieties contributing to its global success. From the traditional fuzzy Hayward to the exotic golden Zespri Gold and the convenient hardy Anna, each type of kiwi offers unique qualities that appeal to different markets and growing conditions. By understanding the characteristics and requirements of each variety, growers can make informed decisions that align with their specific goals and environmental conditions.