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Red-stalked kiwifruit

Actinidia rubricaulisfam. Moraceae
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ediblevinesedibleedible fruitnative asiatreevine
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Actinidia rubricaulis (Actinidia rubricaulis) — botanical photograph
Pl. CBF5 — Actinidia rubricaulis
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Overview

Actinidia rubricaulis, commonly known as the red-stalked kiwifruit or Chinese vine, is a deciduous woody vine native to the south-central and southeast regions of China, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant is valued for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications such as jams and preserves. The vine thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure, growing up to 10 meters in height. One distinctive feature of this vine is the red coloration of its stems, making it an ornamental addition to gardens and landscapes. Actinidia rubricaulis is adaptable to a range of soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay), and prefers consistently moist conditions. For optimal fruit production, ensure the soil remains consistently moist and the plant receives full sun to partial shade. Given its native range in temperate to subtropical climates, the vine may require some acclimatization in other regions.

Quick answers

What is Red-stalked kiwifruit?

Actinidia rubricaulis, commonly known as the red-stalked kiwifruit or Chinese vine, is a deciduous woody vine native to the south-central and southeast regions of China, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Compare with:Actinidia hypoleuca→Actinidia maloides→Actinidia strigosa→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Actinidia rubricaulis thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). The plant can grow up to 10 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For optimal fruit production, ensure the soil remains consistently moist. Propagation can be done through cuttings or seeds. Given its native range in China South-Central, Southeast, Thailand, and Vietnam, it adapts well to similar climates but may require some acclimatization elsewhere.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Red-stalked kiwifruit for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple, light-loving spot in your garden for Red-stalked kiwifruit.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    A trellis or support structure, quality soil, and young plants.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5, and prepare a large container if needed.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Transplant young plants into your prepared garden bed or container.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in spring and summer.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage fruiting and maintain shape.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, not providing enough support, and neglecting pruning are common issues.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of Actinidia rubricaulis is edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. It is commonly consumed fresh but can also be used in various preparations such as jams and preserves. Skip the detailed preparation methods to maintain brevity.
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaThailandVietnam
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Specimen gallery

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

8 related
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Explore further

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