Kiwi arguta Ken’s Red – female

A female form of the hardy ‘baby’ kiwi, Actinidia arguta Ken’s Red is a large, fast-growing deciduous vine, smaller than most kiwis.  The leaves are oval to long, deep green, and bristly. The cream-coloured, scented flowers appear in June, followed by small fruits, about the size of a large gooseberry, cylindrical with a pointed end. They have a smooth skin and both skin and flesh are deep wine-red. The taste is sweeter than that of standard kiwi fruit, and the fruit should not be picked until it has softened slightly and sweetened. Provide a strong framework to train it into, and do not over-fertilise, as this will reduce flowering and fruiting. As a female cultivar, Kiwi arguta Ken’s Red must be grown with a male pollinator.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Moist but well drained soil, preferably acid
Position: Full sun
Pick: Late September–October
Keep: Under-ripe fruit can be kept in the fridge for 4–6 weeks.
Hardiness: Very hardy
Pollination: Needs a male pollinator
Uses: Eating
Height: to 12’ (3.5m)  Spread: to 5’ (1.5m) after many years