About

Actinidia kolomikta is a robust deciduous vine known for its twisting stems. The leaves are ovate, with mature specimens exhibiting silver tips that turn pink over time. This species produces white flowers, with male and female blooms occurring on different plants. It is primarily cultivated for its ornamental foliage.

About the genus

Actinidia consists of robust, primarily deciduous climbing plants that twine as they grow. The leaves are typically simple and ovate, with some species exhibiting variegation. Female or hermaphrodite plants produce small cup-shaped flowers, which may yield edible fruits.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Climber Wall Shrub
Habit
Climbing
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Native to
Far East

Care notes

Cultivation
A vigorous climber that thrives in fertile, well-drained soil. Full sun is needed to bring out the colours of the foliage
Pruning
Pruning group 11 in late winter
Propagation
Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings, layering or grafting
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus and phytophthora root rot