Variegated-leaf hardy kiwi
Actinidia kolomiktafam. Actinidiaceae
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Pl. 1363 — Actinidia kolomikta
Actinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomiktaActinidia kolomikta
IOverview
Overview
Variegated-leaf hardy kiwi, Actinidia kolomikta, is a deciduous vine native to regions including China and Japan. This plant thrives in partial sun to full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy from zones 5-8, it can grow up to 10 meters tall. Known for its edible fruit and ornamental variegated leaves, this vine is both a tasty treat and an attractive addition to gardens. Its distinctive feature lies in the colorful foliage—leaves may display white, pink, or purple hues, adding visual interest even when not bearing fruit.
Quick answers
What is Variegated-leaf hardy kiwi?
Variegated-leaf hardy kiwi, Actinidia kolomikta, is a deciduous vine native to regions including China and Japan. This plant thrives in partial sun to full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Hardy from zones 5-8, it can grow up to 10 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Variegated-leaf hardy kiwi thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in zones 5-8, making it adaptable for temperate regions. This plant can reach a height of 10 meters, so ample space should be provided. Propagation is best done through cuttings.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-8
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Variegated-leaf hardy kiwi for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Variegated-leaf hardy kiwi.
- 1
What you'll need
A young variegated-leaf hardy kiwi plant and a trellis or support system.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring when the soil is workable, or in late summer after the heat has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5; prepare a large pot if using containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from nursery pots to your garden, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the plant annually in late winter to encourage fruiting and maintain size; harvest fruits when they turn yellow-green.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitLeaves
Edible uses: The variegated-leaf hardy kiwi's fruit and leaves are edible. The small, grape-like fruits can be eaten raw or used in jams and jellies. Leaves may be added to salads for a mild flavor. Both parts add a light, tangy taste to dishes.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
10 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
10 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 10 native· 1 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (3)ChinaJapanSouth Korea
introduced (1)Uzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Primorye, Sakhalin
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Actinidiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Actinidiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1363a174-a583-49e5-ab3e-21ad1d5ff8f9
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