ANNA KIWI

Anna Kiwi (Actinidia arguta 'Anna')
Anna Kiwi is a cold-hardy, vigorous variety of the hardy kiwi (also known as baby kiwi or kiwi berry), ideal for USDA Zones 4–9. Unlike the fuzzy supermarket kiwis, Anna produces smooth-skinned, grape-sized fruit that can be eaten whole—no peeling required. This female cultivar must be paired with a male pollinator, such as Meader or another compatible hardy kiwi, to produce fruit.

Growth Habit & Seasonal Interest

• Vine Type: Fast-growing deciduous vine; can reach 15–25 feet in a single season with proper support.

• Foliage: Dense green foliage that creates a lush screen; turns yellow in autumn.

• Flowers: Small, fragrant white flowers bloom in late spring.

• Fruit: Smooth, green fruit ripens in late summer to early fall with sweet, tropical flavor—often described as a mix between kiwi and pineapple.

Site Preferences

• Light: Full sun for best fruiting; tolerates partial shade but may reduce yield.

• Soil: Prefers rich, loamy, well-drained soil with good organic matter; pH 5.5–7.0.

• Moisture: Consistent watering is important, especially during establishment and fruit development. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pests & Diseases (Organic Management)

• Generally pest-resistant. Watch for Japanese beetles or aphids in some areas. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used if needed.

• Good air circulation and proper pruning help prevent fungal issues.

Benefits in the Garden

• Edible Landscaping: Beautiful, productive vine that doubles as a privacy screen or arbor cover.

• High Yields: Once established, Anna can produce dozens of pounds of fruit per season.

• Cold Hardy: One of the most cold-tolerant kiwis available—perfect for Zone 7 growers.

• Low Maintenance: Minimal pest problems and no need for synthetic fertilizers.

• Pollinator Friendly: Spring flowers attract bees and beneficial insects.

How to Grow Anna Kiwi

• Planting: Plant in spring after danger of frost. Use a sturdy trellis, arbor, or fence for vertical support. Space female and male plants 10–15 feet apart.

• Soil Building: Mix aged compost into the planting hole. Mulch 2–3 inches deep with straw, leaf mold, or shredded bark.

• Watering: Water deeply once or twice a week depending on rainfall; do not let roots dry out during fruiting.

• Feeding: Top-dress with compost in early spring; side-dress with worm castings or compost tea mid-season to boost growth.

• Pruning: Prune in late winter to shape and remove weak or tangled growth. Summer pruning can also help direct energy into fruit production.

• Harvesting: Fruit ripens late August through October. Pick when soft and sweet—fruit will not ripen once off the vine if picked early.

Anna Kiwi is a beautiful and bountiful addition to any organic garden—offering lush growth, flavorful fruit, and long-term productivity with minimal input.