Chinese gooseberry, kiwifruit
actinidia chinensis
Also known as: ["Chinese gooseberry","kiwi fruit","macaque peach"]
Overview
A vigorous, deciduous climbing vine native to China, cultivated for its edible berries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Actinidiaceae |
| Genus: | Actinidia |
| Botanical Name: | Actinidia chinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: trellised outdoor garden in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate slightly sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to stimulate new fruiting branches.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure good drainage, amend with organic matter, check pH periodically, avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures; requires a chilling period for fruiting.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings or layering; seeds can be used but may not retain parent traits.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, keep warm and bright.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is vigorous.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stock, maintain consistent moisture, avoid direct sunlight, check for roots after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy, heading cuts to encourage branching, selective removal of weak or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage fruiting wood, remove dead or diseased growth, maintain air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, provide support if needed.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose new pot, prepare fresh soil, inspect roots, prune if needed, position plant, water well, adjust care.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting or browning in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can damage tender tissues; prolonged cold may lead to dieback or reduced fruiting.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers, mulch); plant in a sheltered location; avoid wet soil in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced photosynthesis; may lead to fruit drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply to soil, water after application, adjust for season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring and summer; dilute to half strength; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicKiwifruit is generally safe for cats when consumed in moderation. The seeds are not considered toxic but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in moderation
Dogs
Non-toxicKiwifruit is generally safe for dogs when consumed in moderation. The seeds are not considered toxic but may cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in moderation
Humans
Non-toxicThe fruit of Actinidia chinensis, commonly known as kiwifruit, is generally non-toxic and widely consumed as a nutritious food. The seeds are not considered toxic but may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in moderation
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I grow kiwifruit from seed?
A: Kiwifruit seeds require stratification (cold treatment) before germination. Sow seeds in a well-draining mix, keep moist, and provide warmth and light.
Q: Are kiwifruit plants male and female?
A: Yes, kiwifruit plants are dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants. Only female plants produce fruit, so both are needed for pollination.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for kiwifruit?
A: Kiwifruit thrive in full sun, well-drained soil, and a sheltered location. They require a frost-free period for fruiting and benefit from a trellis or support structure.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Actinidiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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