Hardy Kiwi Geneva (female) - Actinidia arguta

The Smooth-skinned Geneva Kiwai (Actinidia arguta) is an early, non-self-fertile variety that produces smooth-skinned, red kiwais. The Kiwai or Siberian Kiwi (Actinidia arguta) is a cousin of the kiwi (Actinidia chinensis or deliciosa) whose fruits, smaller and sweeter, can be eaten with the skin. This is a female plant that requires the presence of a male plant nearby for pollination. It can be trained along a pergola, trellis, or arbour. Plant preferably in autumn (or in spring in regions with cold winters) for a harvest starting from late September. The Weikii kiwai arguta will be a good pollinator.

The Kiwai (Actinidia arguta), also known as Siberian Kiwi or Kiwiberry, belongs to the Actinidiaceae family, just like its cousin the Kiwi (Actinidia chinensis or deliciosa). Native to Asia, it is a vigorous, voluble liana that can reach a height of 5m (16ft). Its foliage is deciduous. The Kiwai is very hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). The stems bear large heart-shaped leaves, 8-10cm (3-4in) in length, with fine teeth ending in bristles. In early summer (June-July), fragrant and nectar-rich flowers appear, white-greenish in colour with purple anthers, grouped in threes in the axils of the leaves.

Flowering is followed by the formation of ovoid berries, smaller than kiwis (2-4cm (1-2in) in diameter), with smooth and thin skin. The taste of the kiwai resembles that of gooseberries. It is sweeter than the usual kiwi and richer in calcium and vitamin C. From the second or third year of planting, the Geneva variety will yield small, smooth-skinned, red fruits. Please note that this variety is not self-fertile. This is a female plant that requires the presence of a male plant nearby for pollination. As with the kiwi, one male plant can pollinate several female plants.

The beauty of the Kiwai, both in terms of its foliage and its fragrant flowering, makes it a useful ornamental as well. It is necessary to train this plant on a sturdy support, such as a wall with strong wires, a trellis, a pergola, a tree trunk, or a fence. This fruit is very popular with children because it can be picked and eaten straight from the garden. Harvesting takes place from late September to October. The fruits can be easily stored in the refrigerator for about two weeks after harvest. Keep them separate from other fruits so that they do not ripen too quickly. The flavour of the kiwai is well-suited for modern cuisine, enhances the fragrance of fruit salads, and lends itself to the creation of sweet-savoury dishes.