Types of kiwi: an overview of kiwi varieties
When we think of kiwis, we usually think of the oval brown fruits we see in supermarkets. But there are many other types of kiwi for you to discover, including golden kiwis and kiwi berries.
Kiwis are perennial, woody, climbing plants that can reach up to 10m in height. There are numerous different kiwi species and varieties, all of which belong to the genus Actinidia. Botanically, they belong to the Actinidiaceae family. Since there are more than 40 different types of kiwifruits worldwide, we will only present a few of them in this article. All kiwi varieties mentioned here can be grown in the UK.
Types of kiwi: Actinidia chinensis
This species is known as the golden kiwifruit or simply golden kiwi, as the colour of its flesh can vary from green to gold. This kiwi variety is more sweet and less tangy than the regular kiwis most people know. It is hardy in many regions in the UK and can usually be planted outdoors without any problems. This kiwi species can tolerate temperatures down to -20 °C, but may suffer at temperatures below this. However, this usually only affects the younger shoots of the plant.
By properly pruning a kiwi plant, you can remove any frost-bitten branches and encourage new shoots.
Actinidia deliciosa
This type of kiwi, which originates from southern China and is sometimes known as fuzzy kiwifruit or green kiwifruit, is mainly grown commercially worldwide. When people talk about kiwis, they usually mean the fruits of Actinidia deliciosa, which can be found in almost all run-of-the-mill supermarkets and grocery shops. Unfortunately, the plant is only frost-hardy to about -10 °C and is therefore mainly cultivated in warmer regions.
Tip: kiwis prefer slightly acidic soils, so an acidic fertiliser, such as our Plantura Hydrangea Food, is best for most types of kiwis. Our fertiliser also happens to be long-lasting, feeding your kiwi plants for up to 3 months.
- For beautiful hydrangeas with lush blooms in pots & flower beds
- Prevents common deficiency symptoms & supports healthy plant growth
- Long-lasting fertiliser that is free from animal products - child & pet friendly
Actinidia arguta
The fruits of the hardy kiwi are much smaller than the common kiwi. This type of kiwi is also known as the kiwi berry or mini kiwi. These kiwifruits are hairless, green with a smooth skin and are eaten whole, i.e. unpeeled. Actinidia arguta is very hardy. The variety ‘Romeo’, for instance, can withstand temperatures down to -35 °C. Therefore, it can be grown all over the UK without any problems.
Actinidia kolomikta
This kiwi species is also known as variegated-leaf kiwi, super hardy kiwi, or simply kolomikta. The male plants of this ornamental kiwi vine have beautiful leaves that partially change colour from green to pink-red. It is also frost-resistant and can tolerate temperatures down to -30 °C.
Regardless of the type of kiwi you grow at home, proper kiwi plant care is key to achieving a magnificent plant with a rich harvest in your garden. And with our tips, it is as easy as 1-2-3.
