What Are the Different Types of Kiwi Plant

The kiwi plant, also known as Actinidia, is a woody vine that belongs to the family Actinidiaceae. It is native to China but has become popular worldwide for its delicious and nutritious fruits. Kiwi plants are known for their ability to withstand cold temperatures and produce fruits with a unique sweet and tangy flavor. There are several different types of kiwi plants, each with its own distinct characteristics. In this article, we will explore the most common types of kiwi plants.

1. Hayward Kiwi

The Hayward kiwi, also known as the green kiwi, is the most commonly grown type of kiwi plant. It was named after Hayward Wright, who first discovered this variety in New Zealand in the early 20th century. The Hayward kiwi has a brown, fuzzy skin with vibrant green flesh inside. It is known for its sweet and tangy flavor, making it a popular choice for fresh consumption as well as for making juices and desserts.

The Hayward kiwi plant is a vigorous grower and requires male and female plants to produce fruit. The male plants produce pollen while the female plants bear fruit. Therefore, it is necessary to have both male and female plants in close proximity to ensure successful pollination and fruit production.

2. Golden Kiwi

The golden kiwi, also known as the yellow kiwi or sungold kiwi, is another popular variety of kiwi plant. Unlike the Hayward kiwi, which has a green flesh, the golden kiwi has a vibrant yellow flesh that is sweeter and less tangy in flavor. The skin of the golden kiwi is smooth and hairless, making it easier to eat without peeling.

The golden kiwi plant requires similar growing conditions as the Hayward variety but tends to be slightly more cold-hardy. It also requires both male and female plants for successful fruit production.

3. Hardy Kiwi

Hardy kiwi plants, also known as Arctic kiwi or kiwiberry, are smaller in size compared to the Hayward and golden kiwi varieties. They produce grape-sized fruits that have a smooth, edible skin. The flesh of the hardy kiwi is usually green but can be yellow or red in some varieties.

One of the unique characteristics of hardy kiwi plants is their ability to withstand extremely cold temperatures. They can tolerate winter temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C). This makes them an excellent choice for gardeners in colder regions where other kiwi varieties may not survive.

Hardy kiwi plants are also self-fertile, meaning they do not require both male and female plants for fruit production. This makes them easier to grow and maintain compared to the other types of kiwi plants.

4. Baby Kiwi

Baby kiwi, also known as kiwi berry or grape kiwi, is a miniature version of the traditional kiwi fruit. It is about the size of a grape and has a smooth, edible skin that does not require peeling. The flesh is usually green but can also be yellow or red depending on the variety.

Baby kiwis are often sweeter and milder in flavor compared to their larger counterparts. They are also easier to eat since there are no seeds to deal with. Baby kiwis are highly nutritious and packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Like hardy kiwis, baby kiwis are self-fertile and do not require both male and female plants for fruit production. They are also known for their vigorous growth and can be trained to grow on trellises or fences.

5. Red Kiwi

Red kiwi is a relatively new variety of kiwi plant that has gained popularity in recent years. As the name suggests, the flesh of the red kiwi is red in color, giving it a striking appearance. The skin is smooth and hairless, making it easy to eat without peeling.

Red kiwis have a slightly sweeter flavor compared to green kiwis and are often described as having a tropical taste. They are rich in antioxidants and have a high vitamin C content.

Red kiwi plants require both male and female plants for successful fruit production. They have similar growing requirements as the Hayward kiwi and can tolerate cold temperatures.

In conclusion, there are several different types of kiwi plants, each with its own unique characteristics and flavors. The Hayward kiwi is the most common variety, known for its sweet and tangy flavor. The golden kiwi has a sweeter taste and smoother skin. Hardy kiwi plants are cold-hardy and self-fertile, making them easier to grow. Baby kiwis are miniature-sized fruits that are sweeter and milder in flavor. Finally, the red kiwi offers a striking appearance and a slightly tropical taste. Whichever type of kiwi plant you choose to grow, you will be rewarded with delicious and nutritious fruits that can be enjoyed fresh or used in a variety of culinary creations.