Kiwi - Actinidia deliciosa Solissimo

A large, vigorous climber, Actinidia deliciosa ‘Solissimo’ needs to be trained over a sunny pergola or as an espalier against a south-facing wall. Can be grown outside only in the warmest areas, otherwise in a polytunnel or greenhouse big enough to accommodate it. Unlike other kiwis, ‘Solissimo’ is self-fertile; the egg-shaped, bristly, brown fruit (also known as a Chinese gooseberry) is slightly smaller and rounder than most, and very rich in Vitamin C. Reliable production of delicious, vitamin-rich fruit where conditions are right; kiwis need cold winters to produce flowers, but 240 frost-free days for the fruit to mature; late frosts are particularly damaging.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Rich, very well-drained soil
Position: Full sun
Pick: Before the first frosts; allow to ripen indoors
Keep: Will keep for a few weeks in a cool, frost-free place
Hardiness: Frost-hardy
Pollination: Self-fertile
Uses: Eating, juicing
Height: 20’ (6m) Spread: 13’ (4m) depending on training