KIWI ISSAI

Issai Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta ‘Issai’) – Self-Fertile Edible Kiwi Vine for North Florida Gardens

Botanical Name: Actinidia arguta ‘Issai’
Common Name: Issai Hardy Kiwi
Plant Type: Fruiting deciduous vine

Issai Hardy Kiwi is a fast-growing edible fruiting vine prized for its sweet smooth-skinned kiwi fruit and compact self-fertile growth habit. Unlike traditional fuzzy grocery store kiwis, Issai produces smaller grape-sized smooth-skinned fruit that can be eaten whole without peeling. This unique fruiting vine is popular for edible landscapes, backyard orchards, homesteads, pergolas, and trellises throughout North Florida, South Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle.

Issai is one of the most popular hardy kiwi varieties because it is considered self-fertile, meaning it can produce fruit without a separate pollinator, although planting another hardy kiwi nearby may improve production. The vigorous vines also create attractive green foliage and make an excellent edible ornamental plant.

Plant Features:
• Produces sweet edible kiwi fruit
• Smooth skin fruit can be eaten whole
• Self-fertile hardy kiwi variety
• Fast-growing climbing vine
• Excellent for trellises and pergolas
• Attractive ornamental foliage
• Great edible landscape plant
• Compact compared to many kiwi varieties

Mature Size:
Typically reaches 10–20 feet long at maturity with support.

Sun Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade

USDA Growing Zones:
Zones 5–9

Fruit Production:
Produces small smooth-skinned sweet kiwi fruit

Bloom Season:
Spring

Evergreen or Deciduous:
Deciduous

Pollination Information:
Issai is considered self-fertile, but planting another hardy kiwi nearby may improve fruit production and yields.

Landscape Uses:
• edible landscapes
• backyard orchards
• pergolas and arbors
• trellises
• homesteads
• patio garden structures
• fruiting ornamental vines

Soil Requirements:
Prefers fertile, well-drained soil with regular moisture during establishment.

North Florida Growing Information:
Issai Hardy Kiwi can grow in North Florida with proper care and support structures. Benefits from afternoon shade in extremely hot locations and consistent watering during establishment.

Available at Advanced Nursery Growers in Defuniak Springs, Florida.

PLEASE NOTE:
We are NOT SHIPPING at this time. Please only place an order if you are able to pick up locally at our nursery in Defuniak Springs, Florida.

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