Tara Vine

Actinidia arguta

Physical Characteristics

Actinidia arguta is a deciduous Climber growing to 15 m (49ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf from May to November, in flower from June to July, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Bees, insects. The plant is not self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Sap Edible Uses: Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use[1, 3, 61, 105]. Sweeter than A. deliciosa, the kiwi fruit[183], the skin is smooth and can be eaten with the fruit[K]. The fruit contains up to 5 times the vitamin C content of blackcurrants[74]. Highly esteemed according to one report[151] whilst another says that they are insipid[11]. The fruits are greenish-yellow or purple-red when mature and are about 2 to 3cm long[198, 266]. They contain a number of small seeds, but these are easily eaten with the fruit[K]. The plant is rich in sap and this can be tapped and drunk in the spring[105, 177, 183].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known