| Common Name | Latin Name | Plant Family |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Actinidia chinensis |
Actinidiaceae |
Paper is made from the bark[178].
If the bark is removed in one piece from near the root and placed in hot ashes, it becomes very hard and can be used as a tube for a pencil[178].
The plant is said to have insecticidal properties (no more details)[218].
Cultivation & Habitat
Seed – sow spring in a greenhouse[133]. It is probably best if the seed is given 3 months stratification[113], either sow it in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in November or as soon as it is received. Fresh seed germinates in 2 – 3 months at 10¡c, stored seed can take longer[133]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in light shade in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. When the plants are 30cm or more tall, plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts[K]. Most seedlings are male[126]. The seedlings are subject to damping off, they must be kept well ventilated[113].
Cuttings of softwood as soon as ready in spring in a frame[K].
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Very high percentage[113].
Cuttings of ripe wood, October/November in a frame.
Prefers a sound loamy neutral soil[1, 200]. Succeeds in semi-shade but full sun is best for fruit production[200]. Prefers a sheltered position[200].
The dormant plant is hardy to about -15¡c[184], though new growth in spring is very susceptible to frost damage[11].
This species is the parent of the cultivated Kiwi fruits, these cultivars are now included under the name A. deliciosa[200].
Fruits are formed on second year wood and also on fruit spurs on older wood[126], any pruning is best carried out in the winter[219]. The flowers are sweetly scented[245].
This is a climbing plant, supporting itself by twining around branches etc[200].
The ssp. A. chinensis setosa.(newly named, no author as yet) is found in Taiwan from 1300 – 2600m[198].
Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[200].
Dioecious. Male and female plants must be grown if seed is required.
E. Asia – China.
Become ungovernable, break the chains of the matrix; grow and forage your own food and medicine.
*None of the information on this website qualifies as professional medical advice. Take only what resonates with your heart and use your own personal responsibility for what’s best for you. For more information [brackets] [000], see bibliography.