Arctic Beauty Kiwi Actinidia kolomikta
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the Arctic Beauty Kiwi exhibits a striking appearance characterized by its distinctive foliage. The leaves are heart-shaped, and as the plant matures, they can develop patches of white and pink variegation that give them a unique, painted appearance. This variegation often appears on the tips and edges of the leaves, creating a contrast against the green background that makes the plant stand out. The Arctic Beauty Kiwi is a climber, using twining stems to ascend nearby supports, which allows its decorative leaves to cascade elegantly. Flowers of the Arctic Beauty Kiwi are not as conspicuous as its leaves, but they do provide a subtle charm when they emerge. The small blossoms are typically white to cream in color and may be tinged with green or yellow. This plant is dioecious, meaning that individual plants produce either male or female flowers. The male flowers tend to be more showy and fragrant, possibly to attract pollinators. If conditions are right and a male plant pollinates a female plant, the Arctic Beauty Kiwi can produce fruit. The fruits are small, resembling mini kiwifruit, but they do not have the fuzzy skin associated with the more common kiwifruit found in grocery stores. Instead, the skin is smooth, and the fruit can be eaten whole. In the autumn, the foliage of the Arctic Beauty Kiwi can transform once more, taking on hues of yellow before the leaves fall off for the winter. This seasonal change adds another layer of visual interest to the plant as the seasons progress.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Actinidiaceae
Synonyms
Arctic Beauty Kiwi, Kolomikta Vine, Kolomikta Actinidia, Variegated-leaf Hardy Kiwi, Amur Gooseberry
Common names
Actinidia kolomikta var. gagnepainii, Actinidia gagnepainii
ToxicityTo humans
Actinidia kolomikta, commonly known as the kiwi berry, is not considered toxic to humans. It is an edible fruit-producing plant, and its small, grape-sized fruits are typically safe for human consumption when ripe. There is no widespread evidence of toxicity or harmful effects from eating the kiwi berry. However, as with any food product, some individuals might experience allergic reactions or digestive sensitivity.
To pets
The kiwi berry is also not considered toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If pets consume the fruit in moderate quantities, it is unlikely to cause any serious health issues. However, as pets have different digestive systems from humans, overconsumption might lead to gastrointestinal upset such as diarrhea or vomiting. It's always advisable to introduce any new food to your pet in small amounts to monitor for any adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
White
Height
15-20 feet (4.5-6 meters)
Spread
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
East Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Actinidia kolomikta, commonly known as Kolomikta vine or Arctic kiwi, is valued for its decorative foliage, which often shows variegated patterns of green, white, and pink.
- Cold Hardy: This plant is very resistant to cold temperatures, making it suitable for colder climates where other species may not thrive.
- Edible Fruit: It produces small kiwifruits that are edible and have a sweet flavor.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers and fruits attract pollinators and other wildlife, like birds, which can benefit the local ecosystem.
- Growth Habit: Kolomikta vine can be trained to grow on trellises, arbors, or fences, providing vertical interest and space management in gardens.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it is relatively drought-resistant, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Easy Propagation: This plant can be easily propagated from cuttings, which allows for cost-effective garden expansion or sharing with other garden enthusiasts.
- Seasonal Interest: Throughout the growing season, it offers various points of interest from its variegated leaves, to the small white flowers, and finally the fruit.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The Actinidia kolomikta, also known as the variegated kiwi, features leaves that change color, often inspiring artists and designers for patterns and motifs in their work.
- Education: The variegated kiwi can be used in educational settings, such as schools and botanical gardens, to teach about plant biology and horticulture practices.
- Privacy Screen: With its rapid growth and dense foliage, the variegated kiwi can act as a natural privacy screen for homes or gardens when trained along fences or trellises.
- Habitat for Wildlife: Its dense foliage and flowers can provide habitats and food sources for a variety of insects, birds, and other wildlife.
- Mood Enhancement: The vibrant foliage of the variegated kiwi can be used to enhance the aesthetic of an area, contributing to improved mental well-being and mood for those who spend time near it.
- Theme Gardens: It can be included in theme gardens, such as variegated plant gardens or Asian-inspired landscapes, due to its distinct appearance.
- Culinary Uses: While not as common as other kiwi species, the fruits of the variegated kiwi can be used in recipes that call for a tart flavor profile.
- Craft Material: The vines and leaves of the variegated kiwi plant can be used in crafting for making wreaths, garlands, or other decorative items.
- Cultural Practices: In some cultures, the variegated kiwi may be used in traditional ceremonies or celebrations due to its unique appearance and cultural significance.
- Erosion Control: Because of its robust root system, the variegated kiwi can be planted on slopes or areas prone to erosion to help stabilize the soil.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Kiwi Vine is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Kiwi Vine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Vitality - Actinidia kolomikta, also known as variegated kiwi, has vigorous growth and robust nature, symbolizing strong life force and energy.
- Uniqueness - The plant's distinct foliage, which can vary between green, white, and pink, represents the uniqueness and diversity in life.
- Ornamental beauty - Variegated kiwi is often grown for its decorative leaves, denoting an appreciation for aesthetic beauty and artistry.
- Nourishment - As a relative to the kiwifruit, this plant symbolizes nourishment and sustenance, akin to the edible fruits provided by its more famous cousins.
- Change and Transformation - The changing colors of the leaves as they mature can represent transformation and the ability to adapt to life's varying circumstances.
WaterWater the Arctic Beauty kiwi thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which typically amounts to once a week. In hot or dry conditions, you might need to water more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture. Provide enough water to soak the root zone; for a medium-sized plant, this might be around 2 gallons per watering session. During the winter months, decrease watering frequency, as the plant will be in a dormant state. Creating a watering schedule based on the weekly check of the soil's moisture level is recommended to avoid both overwatering and underwatering.
LightArctic Beauty kiwi thrives in full sun or partial shade. It prefers a location that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in regions with intense summer heat, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch. When choosing a spot in the garden or yard, ensure it has adequate morning light, which will help to stimulate growth and fruit production.
TemperatureArctic Beauty kiwi does best in temperate climates with temperatures ranging from 60 to 75°F, although it can tolerate a wider range. It can survive winter temperatures as low as -40°F but requires protection from frost when in bloom to prevent damage to flowers and developing fruits. The ideal growing condition is a well-draining location that avoids extreme temperature fluctuations.
PruningPrune Arctic Beauty kiwi in the late winter or early spring to manage its vigorous growth and promote healthier, more productive plants. Remove dead or overcrowded branches to enhance air circulation and light penetration within the canopy. Pruning is also the key to shaping the plant and encouraging the growth of fruiting spurs. Annual pruning is recommended to maintain optimal plant structure and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilKiwi vine thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand would create an ideal environment for healthy root growth.
RepottingKiwi vine, commonly known as Arctic Beauty, should be repotted every 2-3 years during its dormant period to ensure continuous growth and to refresh the soil.
Humidity & MistingArctic Beauty prefers moderate humidity levels; a range of 40-60% is ideal for this plant to flourish without encouraging leaf or root diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and prune to manage size.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil; full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleActinidia kolomikta, commonly known as variegated kiwi or kolomikta vine, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in spring, provided they are in a moist and well-drained soil environment with some warmth. The young seedling emerges and establishes itself, growing into a vine that requires support for its climbing habit. As the plant matures, it develops distinctive foliage that is initially green and later may show variegated white and pink patches in mature leaves. The plant is dioecious, meaning individual vines are either male or female, and flowering occurs in the spring; the small, fragrant flowers require cross-pollination from male plants for the female plants to produce fruit. Following successful pollination, the female vines bear fruit which matures in late summer or early fall and is edible when ripe. After the growing season, the plant enters a period of dormancy during winter, conserving energy to begin the cycle anew in the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Actinidia kolomikta, commonly known as Arctic kiwi or variegated kiwi, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This process typically occurs in the summer when the current season's growth has matured enough yet hasn't fully hardened. A cutting, about 4-8 inches (10-20 centimeters) long, with several leaves, is taken. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cutting is then placed in a well-draining growing medium such as a mix of peat and perlite, ensuring at least one node is buried where the roots are expected to develop. The cutting should be kept in a warm location with indirect light and maintained humid to prevent drying out. After several weeks, roots should form, and once established, the new plant can be transplanted to a more permanent location.
