Actinidia kolomikta, on its common name Variegated kiwi vine, is a species of deciduous, woody, very long-lived, vigorous twining climber, which ultimately grows up to 8-10 meters, with 15 cm heart-shaped leaves which, in mature specimens, have pink and cream variegated tips, which give the appearance of having been dipped in paint, or in some cases a half or more of the leaf may be white and pink, especially where the plant is in a sunny position. An alkaline soil increases the variegation of the leaves.
It bears clusters of 3 fragrant, white flowers in early summer. Some cultivars are self-fertile, but usually male and female plants are needed to produce sweet, grape-sized fruits, in late summer. Female plants produce smooth, ovoid-oblong, yellow-green fruits, while male plants develop the colorful foliage. Best fruit production is achieved in a place with full sun, even the plant tolerates shade.
It will grow best in a place with full sun or part shade and fertile, well-drained soil. Provide shelter from strong winds. Grow against a large wall or allow it to climb into a large tree. It is fast growing and makes a good cover on a fence, trellis or arbor. If it will not have a wall or support to climb on, this plant will establish its normal form, which is as an open shrub with arching branches, that usually grows no higher than 5 meters.
If you are going to grow them under glass, grow them in loam-based potting compost, give them full light and water and fertilize freely during the growing season but keep just moist in winter.
Propagate by sowing seeds in containers in a cold frame in spring or fall or root semi-ripe cuttings (or graft cultivars) in late summer.
