Kiwis were discovered in China and brought to New Zealand where several varieties were selected and introduced. Hayward has become the most popular of these and is the variety commonly found in markets. Prized by commercial growers for its large size, attractive shape, delicious flavor, and productivity, it is also the most widely grown variety in home gardens.

Latin Name: Actinidia deliciosa

Class: Fuzzy Kiwi

Size at Maturity: 15-20 ft. wide or tall

Pollination: Fuzzy Kiwis need a male plant for pollination. One male plant can pollinate up to 8 female plants. While Hardy Kiwi and Fuzzy Kiwi can cross-pollinate, it is best to use a male of the same species because of possible differences in bloom time.

Pests & Diseases: Kiwis have no significant pest or disease problems in North America.

Hardiness: Fuzzy Kiwi is hardy to approximately 0º F

Bearing Age: 3 to 4 years after planting

Bloom Time: May

Ripening Time: October-Early November

Yield: 100+ lbs.

Special Care: Spacing & Support: All species of Kiwis are vines that need support. Fuzzy Kiwis and Hardy Kiwis are particularly vigorous and require strong support to hold up the plants and the abundant fruit. Issai Hardy Kiwi, Silver Vine and Arctic Beauty Kiwi are less vigorous and can easily be grown on a fence or smaller arbor. Space Hardy Kiwis and Fuzzy Kiwis 12-15 ft. apart. Issai Hardy Kiwi, Silver Vine and Arctic Beauty Kiwi can be spaced 8 ft. apart or less, with attentive pruning to keep them from crowding. To grow one male and one female of either the Fuzzy or Hardy Kiwis, you should have at least 12 ft. of space available. The Male plant needs much less space than the female and can be pruned more severely. More information will be found in our Kiwi Growing Guide, included with each order. Also see our Kiwi Growing Publications in the Book Section.

USDA Zone: 7

Sunset Western Zone: 4-9, 12-24

Sunset Northeast Zone: Not listed

Native Area: China