Actinidia purpurea

At a glance

Exposure: Full sun
Frost limit: −23.3 °C

Cultivation

Prefers a sound loamy neutral soil. Dormant plants are very hardy but young spring growth is susceptible to frost damage. Fruits are formed on second year wood and also on fruit spurs on older wood. This is a climbing plant, supporting itself by twining around branches etc. This species is possibly no more than a form of A. arguta. At least one named variety has been developed for its edible fruit. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus. Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. Cuttings of softwood as soon as ready in spring in a frame[K]. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Very high percentage. Cuttings of ripe wood, October/November in a frame.

Edible uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. It contains a number of small seeds, but these are easily eaten with the fruit[K].

Habitat

Thickets, 1500 - 2100 metres.

Native range

E. Asia - W. China