Position

Sun exposure:
Full shade
Aspect:
South facing
Position in border:
Back

Soil

Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Actinidia kolomikta is a deciduous climber, grown for its distinctive and attractive foliage. It is a very fast growing plant, with twining stems and heart-shaped leaves. The leaves are initially green, but on mature plants they will be tipped with silver and pink. It does take a few years for this leaf variegation to appear on the plant, so be patient.

Actinidia kolomikta produces small, white, fragrant flowers and female or hermaphrodite plants will produce small edible fruit, but it is primarily grown for its foliage.

How to grow Actinidia kolomikta

Grow Actinidia kolomikta in a sunny, sheltered spot, in moist but well-drained soil. A sunny spot against a wall will work particularly well. Horizontal galvanised wires can be used to support the main stems. Limited pruning is required, but in early spring you can remove stems that are crossing or overcrowded and any diseased plant material.

You can propagate Actinidia kolomikta from seed, taking softwood cuttings, layering or grafting.

It does not suffer from any pests or diseases, but might require protection from cats who are attracted to the plants scent.

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Advice on buying Actinidia kolomikta

  • Actinidia kolomikta is typically sold in 2 litre pots
  • Make sure you support the plant once you get it home, some plants will be sold with a support cane

Where to buy Actinidia kolomikta

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Flowersyesyesyes
Fruitsyesyesyes
At its bestyesyesyesyesyesyes

Actinidia and wildlife

Actinidia has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.

Is Actinidia poisonous?

Actinidia has no toxic effects reported.

No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Cats
Cats
Is not known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
Is not known to attract People
People
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