Bower Kiwi Vine (Actinidia arguta), also known as Hardy Kiwi or Baby Kiwi, is a vigorous deciduous climbing vine prized for its glossy green foliage, fragrant white flowers, and clusters of small, smooth-skinned edible fruits. Unlike traditional fuzzy kiwi, the fruits of this hardy species can be eaten whole, with a sweet-tart flavor that ripens in late summer.
This Non-GMO, cold-hardy vine is perfect for gardens, arbors, and fences, adding lush greenery and edible beauty to landscapes. Native to East Asia, it’s easy to grow, highly productive, and tolerant of cool climates, making it an excellent choice for northern gardeners seeking exotic fruiting plants.
Features
- Produces clusters of smooth, sweet edible kiwi fruits
- Cold-hardy and vigorous climbing growth
- Non-GMO and suitable for temperate climates
- Fragrant white flowers in early summer
- Ideal for trellises, arbors, and edible gardens
- Low maintenance and long-lived perennial vine
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Actinidia arguta
- Common Name: Bower Kiwi Vine / Hardy Kiwi / Baby Kiwi
- Plant Type: Perennial fruiting vine
- Growth Height: 15–30 feet (with support)
- Spread: 6–10 feet
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained loamy or sandy soil; pH 5.5–7.0
- Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
- Fruit Season: Late summer to early fall
- Flower Color: White, fragrant
- Fruit Color: Green to reddish-brown when ripe
- Foliage: Glossy green, turning yellow in fall
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Planting Season: Spring after frost danger passes
- Sowing Depth: ¼ inch
- Germination Time: 20–60 days (cold stratification recommended for 60–90 days)
- Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil
- Maintenance: Prune annually to manage size and promote fruiting
- Wildlife Benefits: Attracts pollinators with fragrant flowers
- Uses: Edible landscaping, ornamental vine, trellis and arbor coverage
Planting Guide
- Cold Stratify: Refrigerate seeds for 60–90 days before planting to improve germination.
- Prepare Soil: Use rich, well-drained soil in a sunny to partly shaded area.
- Sow Seeds: Plant ¼ inch deep; keep soil consistently moist.
- Light: Provide 6+ hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Support: Train vines on trellises, fences, or arbors.
- Watering: Maintain even moisture; avoid waterlogging.
- Care: Prune annually after harvest to encourage new fruiting canes.
