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.
1-gallon container.
Key Characteristics of Hardy Male 'Actinidia arguta':
Origin: Hardy male kiwi vines are cultivars of the species Actinidia arguta specifically selected for their abundant and viable pollen production to pollinate female hardy kiwi varieties of the same species. Several named male cultivars exist, often developed by agricultural research institutions or nurseries to complement specific female varieties based on bloom time compatibility. Examples include 'Meader' (University of New Hampshire), 'Tomuri' (New Zealand), and 'Fairchild'. The origin of a particular male vine will depend on the specific cultivar.
Patent Status: The patent status of a specific hardy male Actinidia arguta cultivar will vary. Older cultivars developed by public institutions, such as 'Meader', are likely no longer under patent or were never patented. Newer, proprietary male selections from nurseries may be patented. To determine the patent status of a specific male cultivar, it is necessary to identify the exact name and check relevant plant patent databases or consult with the originating institution or nursery.
Berry Production: Hardy male Actinidia arguta vines do not produce fruit. They are dioecious, meaning they have only male flowers and are grown solely for their pollen.
Ripening Time: Not applicable, as male vines do not produce fruit. Their flowering time is the critical factor. Hardy male Actinidia arguta vines typically flower in late spring to early summer, and the specific bloom time varies between cultivars to ensure overlap with different female varieties.
Plant Size and Appearance: Hardy male Actinidia arguta vines are vigorous, twining, deciduous vines that require strong support such as a trellis, arbor, or fence. They can grow to a substantial size, similar to female vines, potentially reaching 20-30 feet in length or more if not pruned. They have attractive green foliage.
Flowers: Produce numerous clusters of small, white, fragrant flowers with prominent yellow anthers that are rich in pollen. Male Actinidia arguta vines typically have more flowers per cluster compared to female vines. The flowering period usually lasts for 2-3 weeks in April/May.
Hardiness: Hardy male Actinidia arguta cultivars are generally quite hardy, with hardiness depending on the specific cultivar but typically ranging within USDA Zones 4 through 9. Some cultivars may have slightly different hardiness ratings.
Pollination: This is the sole purpose of a hardy male Actinidia arguta vine. They provide the necessary pollen to fertilize female hardy kiwi vines (Actinidia arguta) of compatible bloom time, resulting in fruit production on the female plants. One male vine is generally recommended for every 6-8 female vines planted within about 50 feet.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Prefers full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight) to promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
Soil: Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (around 5.0-6.5) is preferred.
Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season and flowering period.
Pruning: Requires regular pruning, typically in late winter or early spring during dormancy, to manage their vigorous growth and encourage ample flowering. Summer pruning can also be beneficial to control size.
Uses: Exclusively for providing pollen to fertilize female hardy kiwi (Actinidia arguta) vines.
Wildlife Value: The flowers attract pollinators, primarily bees, which then also visit the female flowers, facilitating pollination.
Ornamental Value: Hardy kiwi vines, including male varieties, can be quite ornamental with their lush green foliage when trained on a structure.
Disease and Pest Resistance: Hardy kiwis (Actinidia arguta), including male varieties, are generally quite resistant to many common fruit vine pests and diseases.
