Actinidia kolomikta (Variegated Kiwi Vine)
Prized for its flamboyant foliage, Actinidia kolomikta (Variegated Kiwi Vine) is a large vigorous deciduous climber producing a striking foliage mass of heart-shaped leaves, 3-5 in. long (7-12 cm), some in solid green, others white-splashed green and others heavily variegated with pink. Pleasantly scented flowers are borne during early summer. They are not particularly showy since they are often hidden by the spectacular foliage. Variegated Kiwi Vine is dioecious, with separate male and female plants. Edible oval fruits appear on female plants in early fall. If grown for fruit production, plant one male for every 3-4 females. Fast-growing, the splendid foliage of this climber will clothe sunny walls, arbors or trellises and create a terrific long-lasting feature.
- Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
- Grows up to 15-20 ft. tall (4-6 m) and 6-10 ft. wide (2-3 m).
- A full sun to part shade lover, it is best grown in fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils. Full sun is needed to bring out the colors of the foliage in cool weather, but light shade is best in warmer areas.
- Generally pest and disease free.
- Prune to control size. Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings, layering or grafting
- Native to temperate eastern Asia
Requirements
Hardiness | 4 – 8 |
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Heat Zones | 1 – 11 |
Climate Zones | 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, A1, A2, A3 |
Plant Type | Climbers, Fruit |
Plant Family | Actinidia – Kiwi |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
Height | 15' – 20' (4.5m – 6m) |
Spread | 6' – 10' (180cm – 3m) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy, Fruit & Berries |
Garden Uses | Arbors, Pergolas, Trellises, Wall-Side Borders, Walls and Fences |
Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage |