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Actinidia longicauda

Actinidia longicaudafam. Actinidiaceae
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Actinidia longicauda (Actinidia longicauda) — botanical photograph
Pl. 9A3B — Actinidia longicauda
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Overview

Actinidia longicauda, commonly known as the long-tailed kiwi, is a deciduous vine native to the subtropical regions of China South-Central, China Southeast, and Vietnam. This vine can also be found in parts of Japan and Korea, thriving in a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. It prefers moist conditions and can grow up to 7 meters tall, making it a versatile plant for gardens and landscapes. The vine requires full to partial sun and benefits from good air circulation to promote healthy growth and fruit production. The fruit of Actinidia longicauda is edible and can be enjoyed raw or incorporated into various dishes. Its flavor is often described as a cross between a kiwi and a strawberry, making it a unique addition to culinary creations. While the specific taste or use of the fruit is not detailed here, it is valued for its culinary versatility. This vine is adaptable to different growing conditions, making it a useful plant for gardeners in temperate regions. For optimal fruit production, ensure the plant receives adequate water and grows in a location with good air circulation. Propagation can be done through cuttings or seeds, allowing for easy expansion of the plant's presence in gardens and landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Actinidia longicauda?

Actinidia longicauda, commonly known as the long-tailed kiwi, is a deciduous vine native to the subtropical regions of China South-Central, China Southeast, and Vietnam. This vine can also be found in parts of Japan and Korea, thriving in a variety of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils.

Compare with:Actinidia arguta rufa→Actinidia arisanensis→Actinidia asymmetrica→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Actinidia longicauda thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This vine is hardy in temperate regions and can grow up to 7 meters tall. For optimal fruit production, ensure the plant receives adequate water and grows in a location with good air circulation. Propagation can be done through cuttings or seeds.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
7.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Actinidia longicauda for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple planting approach to grow Actinidia longicauda as an ornamental or fruit-bearing plant.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A young Actinidia longicauda plant, well-draining soil, and a container if planting in a pot.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Actinidia longicauda in spring or early fall when the weather is mild.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare a container that is at least 30 cm wide and deep.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young Actinidia longicauda plants directly into the prepared soil, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their pot.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide Actinidia longicauda with full sun or partial shade, and water it when the top inch of soil feels dry.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune Actinidia longicauda in late winter to early spring to maintain its shape and encourage fruiting.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too deep, not providing enough support for the vines, and neglecting regular pruning.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Actinidia longicauda is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is often used in various dishes where its flavor can be enjoyed either fresh or incorporated into prepared foods.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

11 native · 8 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 11 native· 8 introduced
Asia6 regions
native (5)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanVietnam
introduced (1)Uzbekistan
Broader regions
native:Kuril Is., Primorye, Sakhalin
introduced:Connecticut, Maine, Masachusettes, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Actinidia longicauda (Actinidia longicauda) — botanical photograph
Actinidia longicauda (Actinidia longicauda)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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