Issai Hardy Kiwi

Actinidia arguta 'Issai'

Have a small yard? Issai is for you! Growing to only 8' long, the female Issai is less vigorous and somewhat self-fruitful, though it's much more productive with a male arguta pollinizer. It can be maintained in a pot, which can help keep its feet dry. Although it can be somewhat challenging to establish, it's a valuable addition to a small-scale garden!

These vigorous, beautiful vines produce clusters of oblong kiwi fruits the size of large grapes. Lacking the rough "fuzzy" kiwi skin, these smooth fruits can be eaten whole, like bunches of kiwi-flavored seedless grapes. Originally brought to this country as an ornamental, the green fruit is similar to the fuzzy kiwi in flavor, though sweeter and easier to eat. 

Somewhat less cold hardy than other arguta varieties, it's hardy to -10F in most locations. Can prefer afternoon shade in hot climates. Does poorly in wet and heavy soils. Quite disease resistant.

Cold Hardy to USDA Zone: 6

Mature Length: 8' 

Sun: Full Sun to Afternoon Shade in hot climates

Ripening Time: Late Summer/Early Fall

Pollination: Somewhat Self Fertile

Read our Kiwi Growing Guide