Actinidia chinensis

Chinese gooseberry is a rapidly growing woody deciduous climbing vine in the Actinidiaceae family.  It can be grown in a variety of soil and pH conditions but prefers moist, loamy, neutral, well-drained soil.  It will produce its fruits in both full sun and semi-shade, however, the best fruit production will occur in full sun.  Its rapid growth rate makes it a great choice for sturdy trellises, arbors,  fences, or walls.  Slightly more cold hardy than Actinidia kolomikta and Actinidia melanandra.

It can be found growing in thickets and oak forests on slopes or in ravines.  This dioecious climber has either male or female flowers.  For propagation, both need to be grown to be pollinated by bees and insects.  

The leaves and fruit are both edible.  The flavorful fruits which are rich with vitamin C contain small seeds that are typically eaten with the fruit.  When slightly soft under pressure, they are ready to eat.  Very soft fruit is considered too ripe and not edible.

Flower buds emerge from last year's stems, so pruning in the fall or winter is discouraged.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious insect or disease problems.  Occasional root-knot nematodes, thrips, passion vine hopper, crown gall, root rot may affect the plant.  They are not cold hardy.  Its rapid growth can quickly get out of hand if not closely monitored.

Compare this Plant to: Actinidia kolomikta, Actinidia melanandra