About

Actinidia kolomikta is a robust, deciduous vine that can attain heights of up to 6 meters. The foliage starts as a purplish-green and can develop variegation in mature specimens, provided they are not overly shaded; the lower portions of the leaves may show a creamy-white coloration before transitioning to pink later in the growing season. In early summer, clusters of one to three white, mildly fragrant male flowers appear.

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
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral, Alkaline
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-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
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow 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