These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.
2-year plant, 24-30 inches tall.
Anna Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta 'Anna')
Key Characteristics
Origin: 'Anna' is a popular cultivar of Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta), originating from Asia but selected for its cold hardiness and good fruit production in cooler climates. It is also known as 'Ananasnaya', likely due to its pineapple-like flavor notes.
Patent Status: While the exact original patent information can be difficult to pinpoint definitively decades after its introduction and widespread distribution, 'Anna' Hardy Kiwi is **believed to be unpatented or have a patent that has expired**. Its widespread availability and propagation across various nurseries and regions suggest it is no longer under active exclusive patent protection. However, it's always possible that specific selections or propagation methods derived from 'Anna' could have subsequent protections. For commercial propagation on a large scale, consulting with a reputable nursery source is recommended to ensure compliance with any potential current regulations.
Berry Production: Produces smooth-skinned, bite-sized (grape-sized), green fruit with a sweet-tart, often described as having a tropical flavor with hints of pineapple and citrus. 'Anna' is a female variety known for its high yields once established, potentially producing over 100 pounds of fruit per vine.
Ripening Time: Ripens in late summer to early fall (typically September-October), later than some other hardy kiwi varieties.
Plant Size and Appearance: 'Anna' is a very vigorous, fast-growing, climbing perennial vine that requires a sturdy support structure like a trellis, arbor, or fence. It can reach lengths of 15-20 feet or more if not pruned. It has attractive green foliage and can have ornamental red leaf stems.
Flowers: Produces delicate white blossoms in late spring (May-June).
Hardiness: Exceptionally cold-hardy, typically rated for USDA Zones 4 through 9 (some sources specify 3-9 or 5-9), capable of withstanding temperatures down to -25°F (-32°C) or even lower when fully dormant.
Pollination: 'Anna' is a female variety and **requires a male pollinator** of the same species (Actinidia arguta) for fruit production. Suitable male pollinizers that bloom around the same time include 'Meader', 'MSU', 'Ken's Red' (though primarily a red-fruited female pollinator), or others recommended for A. arguta. One male plant can typically pollinate up to 8 female plants.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight) for the best fruit production and flavor. Can tolerate partial shade, but fruit yield may be reduced.
Soil: Prefers well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH but ideally prefers slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-7.0). Avoid poorly drained soils.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during establishment and fruit development. Water regularly, particularly during dry periods.
Fertilizing: Benefits from light fertilization in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially in the first year.
Pruning: Requires regular pruning to manage its vigorous growth, maintain productivity, and train it on the support structure. Prune during the dormant season (late winter/early spring) to remove tangled, dead, or overcrowded canes and to encourage fruiting spurs. Summer pruning may also be done to control excessive growth.
Uses: The sweet and flavorful fruits are excellent for:
Fresh eating (eaten whole, skin and all)
Adding to fruit salads
Making jams, jellies, and preserves
Baking into desserts
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, and the fruits may be attractive to birds. The dense foliage can also provide some cover.
Ornamental Value: 'Anna' can be an attractive vine with its vigorous growth, green foliage, white spring flowers, and the clusters of small kiwis. Some red coloration on the stems can add further visual interest.
Disease and Pest Resistance: Hardy kiwis are generally relatively pest and disease resistant compared to fuzzy kiwis. However, they can occasionally be susceptible to issues like root rot in poorly drained soils or damage from cats who are attracted to the scent of the vines. Deer may also browse young plants.
