Red-stalked kiwifruit
Actinidia rubricaulisfam. Moraceae
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Pl. CBF5 — Actinidia rubricaulis
Actinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulisActinidia rubricaulis
IOverview
Overview
Actinidia rubricaulis, commonly known as the red-stemmed kiwi or Chinese vine, is a deciduous woody vine native to China's south-central and southeast regions, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure, growing up to 10 meters in height. It is valued for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary applications. One distinctive feature of this vine is the red coloration of its stems, making it an ornamental addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Red-stalked kiwifruit?
Actinidia rubricaulis, commonly known as the red-stemmed kiwi or Chinese vine, is a deciduous woody vine native to China's south-central and southeast regions, Thailand, and Vietnam. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial sun exposure, growing up to 10 meters in height.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
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
What you'll need
A trellis or support structure, quality soil, and young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 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
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into your prepared garden bed or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly in spring and summer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage fruiting and maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, not providing enough support, and neglecting pruning are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
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
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaThailandVietnam
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 (Moraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Moraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
XII
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