Issai Hardy Kiwi

Issai Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta 'Issai')

Issai Hardy Kiwi is a compact, self-fertile kiwi vine that bears smooth, grape-sized green fruit with sweet, aromatic flesh in late summer to early fall. Vigorous yet manageable growth suits trellises, arbors, and small-space edible landscapes.

Distinctive Features

Self-fertile selection sets fruit without a male pollinator, producing thin-skinned kiwis you can eat whole. Dense foliage covers supports quickly, delivering shade and privacy along with reliable yields.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun for best flowering and sweetness; provide light afternoon shade in very hot climates.
• Soil: Well drained, moderately fertile soil enriched with organic matter.
• Water: Keep evenly moist, especially during establishment, flowering, and fruit swell.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9.
• Mature Size: Typically 10 to 15 ft long with support; height varies by training.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Glossy foliage and dangling clusters of fruit create a high-impact edible display.
• Trellises and Arbors: Trains neatly to cover structures with shade and fruit.
• Edible Landscapes: Integrates ornamental coverage with productive harvests.
• Privacy Screens: Fast cover on fences and wires in growing season.
• Large Containers: Performs on sturdy trellises with consistent water and feed.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply when the top inch of soil begins to dry; do not allow prolonged drought during fruiting.
• Pruning: Train a permanent framework, winter prune to maintain size, and summer tip new laterals to 5 to 7 leaves beyond fruit.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in early spring; avoid excess nitrogen that reduces fruiting.
• Mulching: Apply a 2 inch organic mulch to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature, keeping mulch off the stems.
• Notes: Provide a sturdy support and protect tender spring shoots from late frost and drying wind.

Why Choose Issai Hardy Kiwi?

• Self-Fertile: No male pollinator required for dependable crops.
• Thin-Skinned Fruit: Bite-sized kiwis are eaten whole without peeling.
• Compact Vine: Manageable length suits small gardens and patios.
• Fast Coverage: Quickly clothes trellises while setting fruit.
• High Garden Value: Combines shade, screening, and flavorful harvests.

Plant in full sun with sturdy support, keep moisture steady through summer, and prune to a simple framework for consistent yields and easy maintenance.