Quackin Grass Nursery

Actinidia kolomkitka ‘Arctic Beauty’ (FEMALE) – The Hardy Kiwi, a vining plant that produces sweet and delicious green fruits in late summer. From sweet-scented dangling white flowers on long pedicels following successful pollination somewhat rectangular fruit form with rounded corners the color of green grapes. When a gentle squeeze reveals the fruit is softening they are ready to eat; sweet and tasty we eat them off the vine. Some years the female vines modestly sport some of the foliar variegations for which the males of this species are renowned. But what the females lack in foliar colors they make up for in sweet treats! In an interesting sidebar: Dan Hinkley whose travels have taken him to numerous explorations in Asia has run across different Actinidia species. He reports that the females usually also demonstrate the marvelous variegations found in their male counterparts. It is suggested that the variegated foliage may be a strategy to draw pollinating insects - rather like landing pads - which brings the insects close to the flowers which are often somewhat hidden among the foliage. A strong support should be erected for these fast growing twining vines unless they are grown on a stone wall. Plant ‘Arctic Beauty’ in fertile soil sited in full to part sun. They will tolerate a surprising dose of open shade. For gardeners towards the northern end of its range spring planting is advised. In Autumn 'Arctic Beauty' will arrive pruned. Established potted vine, cutting grown.