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Description
Hardy, Fruit-Bearing Kiwi Vine
Common Names: Kiwi ‘Prolific’, Hardy Kiwi
Family: Actinidiaceae
Origin: East Asia (China, Japan, Korea)
Kiwi ‘Prolific’ (Actinidia arguta) is a hardy kiwi variety that produces small, smooth-skinned, grape-sized fruits bursting with sweet, tangy flavor. Unlike traditional fuzzy kiwis, the ‘Prolific’ kiwi can be eaten whole, skin and all. Known for its cold-hardiness, this vigorous, deciduous vine is perfect for growing in temperate climates where traditional kiwi varieties struggle. With its fast growth and ability to bear fruit in just 3-4 years, the Kiwi ‘Prolific’ is a favorite among gardeners looking for a productive and easy-to-grow fruiting vine.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: Kiwi ‘Prolific’ produces small, smooth, grape-like fruits with a sweet, mildly tangy flavor. The fruits are completely edible, including the thin skin, which sets them apart from the larger, fuzzier kiwi varieties. Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, the fruits are highly nutritious and perfect for fresh eating, adding to fruit salads, or blending into smoothies.
Foliage: The vine has lush, heart-shaped green leaves that provide an attractive, ornamental quality in the garden. In the fall, the leaves turn a striking yellow, adding seasonal interest.
Growth Habit: Kiwi ‘Prolific’ is a fast-growing, deciduous climbing vine that can grow up to 15-20 feet tall if provided with proper support. It is well-suited to trellises, pergolas, or arbors, making it a productive and ornamental addition to any garden.
Culinary and Ornamental Uses
The small, smooth-skinned fruits of the Kiwi ‘Prolific’ are perfect for fresh eating due to their sweet and tangy flavor. They can be eaten whole or used in fruit salads, desserts, smoothies, or even preserved as jams and jellies. In addition to its delicious fruit, the vine adds ornamental value to the garden with its lush foliage and fast-growing, vining habit, making it ideal for covering structures or creating natural privacy screens.
