Variety Selection

Hardy kiwi variety development is in its infancy because of the newness of this crop; however, a couple of varieties are available and can be obtained from the nurseries listed in Appendix B.

Arctic Beauty: This name is the common name for kiwi of the species Actinidia kolomikta, rather than being a true variety. This species of kiwi has been difficult to establish in several locations.

Ananasnaya: The name of this variety in Russian means "pineapple like." Because of the tongue-twisting name, many nursery catalogs will refer to this variety as "Anna." The fruit is of very good quality, with a sweet aroma and intense flavor. The skin is green and develops a purple-red blush in the sun. A very vigorous vine, this variety is currently the only "standard" that we have to compare to others.

Dumbarton Oaks: Named after the public garden in which an old vine of this variety was growing and from which plants of this variety were originally propagated. Has good flavor.

Geneva: Several Geneva selections are available through nurseries. Even though they are not widely tested, it is known that the fruit ripens earlier than either Anna or Issai, and that it has a good flavor.

Issai: The only self-fertile variety (not requiring a male pollinator). This variety has not performed well in Pennsylvania. It is from Japan and is less vigorous than other hardy kiwi varieties, with small fruit and good flavor. Harvesting it is a challenge because the fruit ripens unevenly within a cluster.

Meader: Available as both a male and a female. Make sure to order the female if you want fruit from it. The fruit is medium sized.