Acidic / Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy
Formerly named Actinidia pilosula, Actinidia tetramera var. maloides is a vigorous, deciduous climber with striking ovate leaves with pink veining and distinctive large pink-white tips, which can extend to cover most of the leaf. These are complemented by tiny dark pink bell-shaped flowers, which appear singly or in small clusters, from late-spring to early-summer. On female plants where a male is present, these are followed by small edible fruits.
Grow Actinidia tetramera var. maloides in a warm, sheltered spot, in full sun to partial shade, such as against a south- or west-facing wall (full sun makes for the most dramatic foliage). Feed generously throughout the growing season and prune back in late winter. Not fully hardy, it may need protection in winter.
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Actinidia and wildlife
Actinidia has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
