Actinidia kolomikta
kolomikta vine or michurin actinidia
A striking deciduous climber, also known as the variegated kiwi vine, grown mainly for its heart-shaped, deeply veined leaves which have splashes of pink and white on the tips, as if they've been dipped in paint. The flowers, which appear in early summer, are white and fragrant. This unusual, overlapping foliage looks marvellous on a sunny, protected wall. The variegation appears mostly on the uppermost sections of the plant and is often not apparent on young plants, so sections of the plant and is often not apparent on young plants, so you will need to give your Actinidia kolomikta a couple of years to settle in.
How to care for Actinidia kolomikta:
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
Plant in well-draining, fertile soil that has been enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. Choose a sheltered planting location that offers protection against strong winds. For best foliage colour, a sunny spot is ideal. Provide a thick, insulating layer of well-rotted organic mulch around the roots for winter protection. Tie the main stems on to a series of horizontal galvanised wires. In early spring, remove any crossing, diseased or overcrowded stems.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
Eventual spread:
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
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This climber is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
